Daijiworld Media Network - Imphal
Imphal, Jul 4: In a significant breakthrough amid ongoing unrest in Manipur, security forces recovered 203 weapons and around 160 types of ammunition and explosives during joint operations across four hill districts. Officials announced the success of the large-scale crackdown on Friday, describing it as a major step towards restoring law and order in the violence-hit state.
Acting on specific intelligence inputs about hidden stockpiles of arms and warlike materials, joint teams from the Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, Indian Army, CRPF, BSF, and ITBP launched coordinated operations across Tengnoupal, Kangpokpi, Chandel, and Churachandpur districts. The targeted raids began Thursday and continued into Friday.
The massive haul includes a range of sophisticated and indigenous firearms:
• 21 INSAS Rifles, 11 AK-series rifles, 26 Self-Loading Rifles (SLRs)
• Two sniper rifles, three carbines, 17 PT-303 rifles, and two MA assault rifles
• Three M79 grenade launchers, two 5mm Mor, and one scoped rifle
• Pistols, muzzle-loaded rifles, country-made firearms, and breech-loaded shotguns
In addition to the weapons, security forces seized a significant quantity of ammunition and explosives:
• 29 rounds of 5.56 mm, 80 rounds of 7.62 mm, 30 Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)
• 10 grenades, nine Pompi shells, and two Lathode grenades
A senior official involved in the operation called the arms recovery a “substantial blow to militant networks” operating in the region. “These coordinated operations are a major step forward in our efforts to restore normalcy and ensure the safety and security of citizens,” the official said.
The Manipur Police also emphasized their continued commitment to peace and public safety. They urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or information related to illegal arms to the nearest police station or Central Control Room.
This operation follows a similarly large-scale seizure just three weeks ago. On June 13-14, joint security forces had recovered 328 weapons and approximately 9,300 rounds of ammunition in another round of raids across the state.
Officials confirmed that high-level coordination between state police and central security agencies remains in place and that more such operations will continue in the coming weeks to bring lasting stability to the region.