Manipur Police Intensify Crackdown: Five Arrested, Heroin and Arms Seized
News Summary
On May 31, 2025, Manipur Police launched a series of coordinated security operations across the state, resulting in the arrest of five individuals involved in insurgent activities and drug trafficking. The operations led to the seizure of approximately 1.16 kg of suspected heroin and a significant cache of illegal arms and ammunition. These actions are part of the ongoing efforts to curb the rising insurgency and drug-related issues in the region.
Manipur’s Intensified Security Measures: A Deep Dive into the Recent Operations
Understanding the Context
Manipur, a state in Northeast India, has been grappling with insurgency and drug trafficking for decades. The state’s proximity to the “Golden Triangle”—a region known for opium production—makes it a hotspot for drug smuggling. Additionally, ethnic tensions and insurgent groups have further complicated the security landscape.
The Recent Operations: A Closer Look
Arrest of KYKL (SOREPA) Cadres
Two active members of the proscribed outfit KYKL (SOREPA) were apprehended:
- Locations: Mutum Phibou under Wangoi Police Station and Kakching Khunou, Chekshapat Maning Leikai under Kakching Police Station.
- Individuals Arrested: Kharibam Nimai Singh (45) and Thingnam Sangeeta Devi (42).
- Activities: Involved in extortion activities targeting the general public, private schools, and a stone crusher plant in the valley region.
- Seizures: Four mobile phones and two Aadhaar cards
Drug Trafficking Bust
A significant drug bust occurred in Imphal West District:
- Incident: A Mahindra Thar was intercepted in front of the Imphal Telegraph Office.
- Seizure: 100 soap cases containing approximately 1.16 kg of suspected heroin powder hidden in the rooftop of the vehicle.
- Individuals Arrested: Wangpem Lamkang (20), Jacop Shangkhil (18), and Wanghon Khular (18), all residents of Chandel District.
Recovery of Illegal Arms
Security forces conducted extensive search operations in vulnerable hill and valley areas:
- Thanlon Village, Pherzawl District: Two SBML guns without serial numbers were recovered.
- Wabagai Thingel Leikai, Kakching District:
- Seizures:
- Two INSAS rifles.
- Four .303 sniper rifles.
- Two SLRs.
- One anti-riot gun.
- Multiple rounds of live ammunition.
- Three vehicle tyre rubber tubes.
- Seizures:
Ensuring Safe Transit
To maintain the flow of essential goods:
- NH-37: 95 vehicles were safely escorted along this national highway.
- Checkpoints: 111 checkpoints were established across hill and valley districts.
- Outcome: No detentions were reported at the checkpoints, indicating effective security measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is KYKL (SOREPA)?
KYKL (SOREPA) stands for Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (Social Revolutionary People’s Army), a proscribed insurgent group operating in Manipur, involved in various anti-national activities, including extortion and armed rebellion.
Q2: Why is Manipur a hotspot for drug trafficking?
Manipur’s proximity to the “Golden Triangle” and its porous borders with Myanmar make it a strategic transit point for drug smuggling into India
Q3: What measures are being taken to ensure the safety of essential goods transportation?
The police have established multiple checkpoints and are providing security escorts along major highways like NH-37 to ensure the safe transit of goods.
Q4: How are local communities involved in these operations?
Local communities play a crucial role by providing intelligence and cooperating with security forces, which is vital for the success of such operations.
Q5: What are the future plans to combat insurgency and drug trafficking in Manipur?
The authorities plan to continue and intensify operations, enhance border security, and engage with local communities to gather intelligence and foster cooperation.
