In a major crackdown on insurgency and illegal activities, Manipur Police arrested an active cadre of the banned People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (Progressive) – PREPAK (PRO) on Wednesday in Imphal West District. The individual, identified as Sapam Jamesbond (25) alias Nganba, was apprehended at Singjamei Makha Kakwa Asem Leikai, under the jurisdiction of Singjamei Police Station.
Arrest Details and Seizures
According to police officials, Sapam Jamesbond was actively engaged in extortion activities, threatening and collecting money from:
- Government offices and officials
- Businessmen and shop owners
- Local pradhans and elected representatives
- General public under duress
During the arrest, police seized the following items from his possession:
- Two mobile handsets used for communication with accomplices
- Cash amounting to ₹800, suspected to be part of the extortion collection
- A four-wheeler vehicle, possibly used in criminal operations
The arrest is part of Manipur’s intensified efforts to combat extortion, insurgency, and criminal activities linked to banned militant outfits operating in the state.
PREPAK (PRO) and Its Role in Manipur’s Insurgency
The People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) is a banned insurgent group in Manipur that aims to establish an independent state. The PRO (Progressive) faction is one of its active wings, often involved in extortion, threats, and violent attacks to fund its operations.
PREPAK (PRO) has been responsible for several illegal monetary demands from civilians, businesses, and government offices in Manipur. The latest arrest of an active cadre highlights the continued challenges faced by security forces in curbing insurgency-linked financial networks.
Police Investigation and Crackdown on Extortion
Following the arrest, Manipur Police have launched an in-depth investigation into Sapam Jamesbond’s links with other PREPAK (PRO) operatives and potential accomplices. Authorities are:
- Tracing financial transactions linked to the extortion racket
- Identifying networks of collaborators involved in collecting extorted money
- Examining mobile phone records for communication between PREPAK (PRO) members
- Tracking other militant activities connected to the banned outfit
Security forces in Imphal West and other districts are on high alert to dismantle any remaining extortion rings and prevent further militant funding.
Manipur’s Fight Against Insurgency and Extortion
Manipur has long faced security challenges due to insurgent groups like PREPAK (PRO), UNLF, PLA, and others. However, the state police, along with central security forces, have been actively countering these threats through:
- Surveillance operations to track militant movements
- Public awareness campaigns to encourage civilians to report extortion threats
- Rapid police action against active insurgent cadres
- Coordination with intelligence agencies for preemptive action
In recent years, several top insurgent leaders and cadres have been either arrested or forced to surrender, signaling a decline in militant activities. However, isolated incidents of extortion and threats persist, making continuous law enforcement action necessary.
Public Cooperation and Security Measures
The police have urged businesses, shop owners, and government officials to report any instances of extortion demands or suspicious activities. The public is encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to root out insurgent-linked financial networks.
Additionally, checkpoints and security patrols have been increased across Imphal West and other key areas to ensure the safety of civilians and deter militant activities.
A Step Towards a Safer Manipur
The arrest of PREPAK (PRO) cadre Sapam Jamesbond is a major victory for Manipur Police in its ongoing battle against insurgency and extortion-related crimes. By dismantling financial networks that fuel militant outfits, authorities are making progress towards a more secure and peaceful Manipur.
With continued police action, community cooperation, and intelligence-based operations, the state aims to eliminate extortion activities and weaken the influence of banned outfits like PREPAK (PRO). The latest operation reinforces the commitment of security forces to upholding law and order and protecting citizens from insurgent threats.