Manipur: Three Arrested in Imphal East for Illegal Arms Sale
News Summary
On May 13, 2025, Manipur Police, in collaboration with central security forces, arrested three individuals in the Pukhao Ahallup Makha Leikai area of Imphal East district for their involvement in illegal arms trading. The operation, initiated based on specific intelligence inputs, led to the apprehension of Naorem Naocha Meitei (38), an active member of the banned insurgent group UNLF (Pambei faction), along with Leishangthem Inaoton Singh (23) and Ayekpam Boiboy Meitei (26). The suspects were reportedly waiting to complete an illegal arms deal worth ₹3.5 lakhs. Recovered items included a military-grade INSAS rifle with a magazine, eight rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition, three mobile phones, two wallets, and two identity cards. Authorities have registered a case under relevant sections of the law, and investigations are ongoing to trace the source of the weapons and identify other individuals possibly linked to the illegal arms network.
The Suspects: Who Are They?
- Naorem Naocha Meitei (38): Also known as Chinglakpa, he is an active member of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), Pambei faction, a banned insurgent group.
- Leishangthem Inaoton Singh (23): Alias Aphao, a resident of Pukhao Naharup.
- Ayekpam Boiboy Meitei (26): Alias Ishanta Meitei, also from Pukhao Naharup.
Their involvement indicates a nexus between insurgent groups and local individuals in facilitating illegal arms transactions.
The Seizure: What Was Recovered?
The operation led to the recovery of:
- One INSAS rifle with a magazine
- Eight rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition
- Three mobile phones
- Two wallets
- Two identity cards
The presence of a military-grade weapon like the INSAS rifle is particularly alarming, as it suggests leakage from official sources or successful raids on armories by insurgent groups
FAQs
Q1: What is the significance of the INSAS rifle recovered during the operation?
The INSAS rifle is a military-grade weapon used by Indian armed forces. Its presence in illegal arms trade indicates a serious breach in security and suggests possible leakage from official sources or successful raids by insurgent groups.
Q2: How does Manipur’s geography contribute to illegal arms trade?
Manipur’s proximity to international borders, particularly with Myanmar, and its challenging terrain make it a strategic transit point for arms smuggling and insurgent activities.
Q3: What legal actions are taken against individuals involved in illegal arms trade?
Individuals found guilty under the Arms Act, 1959, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) can face stringent penalties, including imprisonment and fines, depending on the severity of the offense.
Q4: How can the community aid in combating illegal arms trade?
Community members can assist by staying vigilant, reporting suspicious activities to authorities, and participating in public awareness campaigns to educate others about the dangers of illegal arms trade.
Q5: What measures are being taken by the government to address this issue?
The government is implementing various strategies, including strengthening border security, enhancing intelligence sharing among agencies, engaging communities, enforcing legal reforms, and collaborating with neighboring countries to curb illegal arms trafficking.
