Manipur: Security Forces Arrest Five Militants Involved in Extortion Activities
In a significant crackdown on insurgent-linked extortion in Manipur, security forces have apprehended five individuals associated with proscribed groups, recovering weapons and other incriminating materials.
Summary of the Incident
In a coordinated operation, central security forces and Manipur police arrested four alleged cadres of the People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak-Progressive (PREPAK-Pro) and one activist of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF). The arrests led to the recovery of weapons, grenades, ammunition, mobile phones, and vehicles, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat insurgency-related extortion in the region.
Detailed Account of the Operation
The operation unfolded over 24 hours, targeting strategic locations across Manipur. Acting on intelligence inputs, security forces first apprehended Md. Taj Khan alias Romen (37), a PREPAK-Pro cadre, from Mantripukhri Bazar under Heingang Police Station in Imphal East District. His arrest provided leads that culminated in the capture of three additional PREPAK-Pro members: Oinam Abung Meitei (31), Yumlembam Romesh Singh alias Ratan (47), and RK Navy Meitei (32), from Kumbi Terakhong under Kumbi Police Station in Bishnupur District.
In a separate operation, security forces detained Shagolshem Prabin Singh (27), an alleged UNLF cadre, at Ningombam Lamkhai crossing near Punya Toyota Showroom under Singjamei Police Station in Imphal West District. These individuals were reportedly involved in extorting money from shops, transporters, and government employees.
Items Seized
The operations led to the seizure of significant items, including:
- One .303 Light Machine Gun (LMG)Northeast Now+2NorthEast Now+2Northeast Now+2
- Two .303 LMG magazines
- Multiple rounds of live ammunition of various calibers
- One 36 Hand Grenade key
- Three grenade arm ringsNenow+1Northeast Now+1
- One four-wheeler vehicle
- Four mobile phonesNortheast Now+2Nenow+2NorthEast Now+2
These recoveries underscore the preparedness of these groups to undertake violent activities and the importance of proactive security measures.
Context of Insurgent Activities in Manipur
Manipur has long grappled with insurgent groups seeking various political objectives. Organizations like PREPAK-Pro and UNLF have been implicated in numerous unlawful activities, including extortion, which they purportedly use to fund their operations. Such activities have adversely affected local communities, instilling fear and disrupting economic stability.Nenow
Recent Developments
The recent arrests are part of a broader strategy to dismantle insurgent networks in the region. For instance, in December 2023, following a peace deal, 550 UNLF cadres paraded at the historic Kangla Fort, signaling a potential shift towards reconciliation. However, the persistence of extortion activities indicates ongoing challenges in achieving lasting peace.Northeast Now
Impact on Local Communities
Extortion by insurgent groups has placed a significant financial burden on local businesses and individuals. The fear of retribution often prevents victims from reporting incidents, allowing these activities to persist. The recent arrests may provide some respite, but sustained efforts are necessary to eradicate such practices.
Conclusion
The apprehension of these five individuals marks a notable success in the fight against insurgent-related extortion in Manipur. It highlights the effectiveness of coordinated security operations and the importance of continued vigilance. Addressing the root causes of insurgency and promoting dialogue remain essential to achieving enduring peace in the region.
FAQs
- What is PREPAK-Pro?
- PREPAK-Pro, or People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak-Progressive, is a proscribed insurgent group in Manipur involved in various unlawful activities, including extortion.Nenow+1Nenow+1
- Who is UNLF?
- The United National Liberation Front (UNLF) is another banned militant organization in Manipur, advocating for the state’s independence and implicated in multiple insurgent activities.Northeast Now
- How do these groups fund their operations?
- Groups like PREPAK-Pro and UNLF often resort to extortion, targeting local businesses, transporters, and government employees to finance their activities.
- What challenges do security forces face in combating insurgency in Manipur?
- Security forces contend with challenges such as difficult terrain, the clandestine nature of insurgent operations, and the need to balance security measures with respecting human rights.
- What steps are being taken to achieve peace in Manipur?
- Efforts include peace negotiations, rehabilitation of surrendered militants, and socio-economic development initiatives aimed at addressing underlying issues fueling insurgency.
