Daijiworld Media Network - Imphal
Imphal, Feb 26: With just a day left before the deadline set by Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla for the surrender of illegally acquired weapons, several individuals across seven districts have voluntarily handed over a significant cache of firearms and military equipment to local authorities.
According to official reports, a total of 87 weapons, including military-grade rifles, improvised explosives, and various forms of ammunition, were surrendered. The operation was conducted across multiple police stations in Churachandpur, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kangpokpi, Jiribam, and Imphal West districts.
Governor Bhalla had issued an appeal on February 20, urging all ethnic groups in the state to voluntarily surrender illegal arms within a week, assuring that those who complied would not face legal action. However, he also warned that anyone failing to meet the deadline would face stringent punitive measures.
Among the surrendered arsenal were Self-Loading Rifles (SLRs), INSAS light machine guns, AK-47 rifles, sniper rifles, pistols, and an 81mm mortar. The collection also included several country-made firearms and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Security forces intensified search operations in sensitive areas, leading to the recovery and destruction of additional improvised mortars, bombs, and around 5.5 kg of IEDs with detonators near a village in Tengnoupal district.
In addition to the weapons, tactical gear such as bulletproof vests, helmets, radio sets, and military uniforms were also surrendered, according to official sources.
Meanwhile, members of Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei militia group accused of inciting violence and extortion since the outbreak of ethnic conflict two years ago, met with Governor Bhalla on Tuesday evening. They sought assurances that civilians would not be left vulnerable following the disarmament process and requested a commitment that security forces and local police would prevent any further unrest, eliminating the need for civilians to rearm themselves.
As the deadline looms, security forces remain vigilant to ensure compliance and maintain stability across the region.