Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Oct 17: Assam Rifles troops, in coordination with Manipur Police, have apprehended five suspected members of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) in an intelligence-based operation in Ukhrul district, officials said.

The five are suspected to be associated with the G-5 conglomerate, an underground alliance comprising five insurgent groups — UNLF, KCP, KYKL, PREPAK and PREPAK (Pro).

The UNLF, the oldest valley-based insurgent group in Manipur, was founded in 1964. In 2023, the outfit signed a peace agreement with the Centre and the Manipur government, agreeing to renounce violence and join the mainstream.

However, some factions of the UNLF, along with members of the G-5 conglomerate, have allegedly continued to issue threats and make extortion demands despite the peace agreement. Some members are also believed to be operating along the India-Myanmar border, an official said.

Security forces have recently intensified action against G-5 members following threats reportedly linked to a one-year ban imposed on Shumang Leela drama troupes and participants of the Sangai Festival.

Shumang Leela, a traditional form of Manipuri theatre, has played a role in raising public awareness about social issues, including drug abuse, HIV and insurgency.

Some UNLF cadres have also reportedly participated in the ethnic violence that has affected Manipur over the past three years. They have further been accused of providing logistical and other support to G-5 groups allegedly involved in direct attacks on security forces.

In July this year, an Assam Rifles convoy came under attack in Ukhrul district, near the Myanmar border, leaving two soldiers dead. Although no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, officials said the possible involvement of the G-5 was being considered.

“We have seized some material from them, which is being examined. Many G-5 members are also involved in recruitment of youths from the state and sending them across to camps in Myanmar for training. We have busted one such module recently,” the official said.