Imphal, May 12: Security forces in Manipur have arrested eight militants belonging to banned outfits and seized a large cache of arms and ammunition in a major crackdown across multiple districts. Officials confirmed that among those arrested were two top extremist leaders, marking a significant blow to insurgent networks in the state.

Police identified the arrested leaders as Vincent Pumjamang Taithul (40), self-styled Commander-in-Chief of the Zogam Liberation Front (ZLF), and Khumbongmayum Ananda Meitei alias Lamphel alias Ibomcha (53), self-styled advisor of the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP). The arrests were made during intelligence-based operations in Churachandpur, Imphal West, Kakching, and Imphal East districts.

Authorities recovered sophisticated weapons, a large cache of ammunition, incriminating documents, and mobile phones from the possession of the militants. Four members of the banned People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and its sister outfit Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF) were also apprehended from the Lamlai police station area in Imphal East.

In addition to the arrests, security forces rescued three innocent youths who had been coerced and detained by PLA/RPF militants for recruitment into the proscribed outfit. Police said the rescue highlighted the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable communities from forced involvement in insurgent activities.

Extensive combing, cordon, and search operations are being carried out across Manipur to apprehend those involved in kidnapping, extortion, and other unlawful activities. Central and state forces are conducting area domination exercises in mixed-population and vulnerable districts of the Imphal valley and surrounding hills.

To curb illegal movement, 114 checkpoints (nakas) have been set up across valley and hill districts. Security personnel are also escorting vehicles transporting foodgrain and essential commodities along the Imphal-Jiribam National Highway (NH-37), ensuring safe passage through sensitive stretches.

Also Read: Security Forces Nab 29 Militants, Recover Arms And Ammunition In Manipur

Strict convoy protection measures remain in place to prevent disruptions, while police have urged the public to remain cautious of fake videos and rumours circulating on social media. “Uploading or sharing fake posts will invite legal action,” a police statement warned, advising citizens to verify information through the Central Control Room.

The arrests and seizures underscore the intensified security operations in Manipur, aimed at dismantling militant networks and safeguarding civilian life amid ongoing challenges in the region.