Imphal: Security forces in Manipur have intensified their crackdown on militants and illegal drug networks, recovering a large cache of arms and ammunition, arresting a suspected militant of the banned People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) and seizing around 50 kg of suspected opium in separate operations, officials said on Tuesday.

A joint team of the Manipur Police and the 19 Garhwal Rifles conducted a search operation in the forest area of K. Thenjang village in Churachandpur district, leading to the recovery of arms, explosives and other war-like materials.

Officials said the recovered items included sophisticated weapons, though a detailed list of the seized arms and ammunition is awaited.

PREPAK Militant Held With Grenades

In another operation, security forces arrested a suspected militant linked to the banned PREPAK outfit from the Yourabung Panthoibi Leikai area in Imphal East district.

The arrested person has been identified as Ningombam Amuthoi Meitei (30), a resident of Imphal East. Police said eight powerful hand grenades were recovered from his possession.

Further investigation is underway to determine his involvement in militant activities and possible links with other members of the outfit.

50 Kg Opium Seized Near Imphal-Dimapur Highway

Meanwhile, Manipur Police recovered 49 packets containing around 50 kg of suspected opium from an abandoned car near Hengbung Baptist Church along National Highway-2 (NH-2).

According to officials, the vehicle had earlier allegedly fled after avoiding a naka checking point at T. Khullen under Senapati Police Station. Documents belonging to Z. Reithingam (52), a resident of Ukhrul district, were also found inside the vehicle.

The seized narcotics are estimated to be worth over ₹3 crore in the illegal market, police said. Preliminary investigation suggests that the consignment may have originated from neighbouring Myanmar, which shares a long unfenced border with Manipur.

Security Forces Continue Crackdown Across State

Security forces have continued search operations and area domination exercises across vulnerable areas of Manipur to prevent militant activities and maintain security.

Authorities have set up 111 nakas/checkpoints across hill and valley districts to monitor the movement of militants, suspicious vehicles and anti-social elements.

Security arrangements have also been strengthened along important routes, including Imphal-Jiribam National Highway (NH-37), with convoy protection being provided to vehicles carrying essential supplies.

The Manipur Police have advised people to avoid spreading unverified information and remain cautious about fake videos and misleading content circulating on social media.