Manipur Violence: Security Forces Seize 36 Firearms, Over 300 Rounds Of Ammo From Several Regions

They stated the weapons confiscated included carbines, rifles, handguns, grenades, homemade mortars, and a cannon, in addition to explosives.

During search operations in several regions of Manipur over the previous four days, security officers confiscated 36 firearms and over 300 rounds of ammunition, police said on Friday, news agency PTI reported. They stated the weapons confiscated included carbines, rifles, handguns, grenades, homemade mortars, and a cannon, in addition to explosives. The firearms were discovered after security personnel conducted searches in the outlying and vulnerable regions of Imphal West, Imphal East, Kakching, Thoubal, Bishnupur Kangpokpi, and Churachandpur districts.

The search activities also resulted in the arrest of three UNLF cadres from Imphal West, according to a news release from Manipur Police. According to police, they were involved in extortion.

According to the statement, security personnel also secured the passage of 370 cars carrying critical commodities along NH-37 (connecting Imphal and Jiribam) and 250 vehicles carrying important things along NH-2 (Imphal to Dimapur).

"Strict security measures have been taken up in all vulnerable locations and security convoys are provided in sensitive stretches to ensure free and safe movement of the vehicles," the statement was quoted by PTI in its report.

Police also warned the public not to trust rumours and to be wary of phoney films.

"Unverified videos can be checked for authenticity at 9233522822 of the central control room. Further, appeal is made to public to return the looted arms, ammunition and explosives to the police or nearest security forces immediately," it added. 

Earlier today, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has detained a 22-year-old Pune man as a crucial suspect in the kidnapping and murder of two Imphal residents in Manipur three months ago. He was brought before the appropriate court, and the CBI has custody of him till October 16. 

Hijam Linthoingami (17) and Phijam Hemjit (20), both Meiteis, disappeared on July 6, this year. On September 25, photos of their remains appeared, sparking violent riots.

According to a CBI spokesperson, the accused, known as Paolun Mang, was apprehended on October 11 and is currently being questioned. He was hiding in Pune after the tragedy, and more investigations are underway.