In a major crackdown on insurgency, Manipur Police arrested three militants in separate operations in the Imphal West district, officials confirmed on Sunday. The arrests targeted members of two banned outfits, the United National Liberation Front (UNLF-Pambei) and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), both of which have been involved in extortion and illegal activities across the region.
UNLF-Pambei Militants Apprehended in Narankonjil
On Saturday, police successfully apprehended two militants belonging to the proscribed United National Liberation Front (UNLF-Pambei) faction from the Narankonjil area. The arrested individuals have been identified as Khoisnam Ronaldo Singh (23) and Soram Ngouba Meitei (30).
According to police officials, the two militants were actively involved in extortion and the illegal smuggling of arms and ammunition in Imphal West. Law enforcement recovered the following items from their possession:
- One .32 caliber pistol with a magazine
- A two-wheeler vehicle used for operations
- Two mobile phones containing evidence of illegal activities
- Rs 3,120 in cash
PLA Militant Arrested in Kangjabi Leirak Machin
In another operation on the same day, police arrested a People’s Liberation Army (PLA) militant involved in extortion activities. The accused, identified as Ningthoujam Khamba (52), was nabbed from the Kangjabi Leirak Machin area.
Authorities revealed that Khamba was extorting money from rented houses and shops in the Nagamapal and Uripok areas, pressuring business owners to provide illegal financial contributions to his militant group. During the operation, police recovered:
- A two-wheeler used for movement across the city
- Two mobile handsets containing contacts and transaction records
- A wallet with Rs 510 in cash and an Aadhaar card
Manipur Police’s Efforts in Countering Insurgency
The recent arrests highlight Manipur Police’s ongoing efforts to combat insurgency and criminal activities in the state. The crackdown on militant extortion rackets is part of an intensified security operation aimed at neutralizing insurgent networks that have long operated in the region.
A senior police official emphasized that the government remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of residents by eliminating threats posed by extremist groups. “These arrests mark a step forward in our mission to curb militant activities and maintain peace in Manipur,” the officer stated.
The Role of UNLF-Pambei and PLA in Manipur’s Insurgency
Both the United National Liberation Front (UNLF-Pambei) and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) have a long history of armed rebellion in Manipur. These groups have been responsible for numerous extortion cases, arms trafficking, and attacks on security forces in the past.
The UNLF-Pambei faction, an offshoot of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), has been operating with the objective of securing an independent Manipur. Similarly, the PLA has been engaged in insurgent activities against the Indian government, often targeting businesses and local communities for extortion to fund its operations.
Growing Security Concerns and Future Operations
Security forces in Manipur have intensified anti-insurgency operations in response to the increasing number of militant activities, especially in Imphal West and surrounding areas. The police have urged citizens to report any suspicious activities, warning that extremist groups are still active despite recent crackdowns.
Additionally, authorities are working towards implementing rehabilitation programs to encourage surrendered militants to reintegrate into society. Many former insurgents have already benefited from such initiatives, gaining access to employment opportunities and skill development programs.
The arrest of three militants in Imphal West serves as a strong message to extremist organizations operating in Manipur. The proactive approach of Manipur Police in combating insurgency is a crucial step toward restoring normalcy and security in the region.
With continued surveillance, intelligence-based operations, and public cooperation, law enforcement agencies aim to dismantle militant networks and bring peace to Manipur. The fight against militancy remains a priority for the state, ensuring a safer environment for its residents and businesses.
