UKHRUL: Security forces launched several operations on Wednesday and Thursday based on credible information regarding the sale of looted arms and ammunition in the Lamshang, Imphal West, area leading to the apprehension of four UNLF (P) cadres.
Manipur Police apprehended Heishnam Thomas Singh (29) of Mayang Imphal Kolchak and Arambam Tomtom Singh (29) of Lamshang Heibongpokpi Mayai Leikai on Wednesday. Weapons recovered from them included one INSAS LMG, three INSAS LMG magazines, and 14 live rounds of ammunition. During the arrest operation, associates of the cadres opened fire on the security forces, resulting in a brief exchange of fire. Two more cadres involved in the firing — Ningthoujam Rakesh Singh and Chingakham Mahesh Singh were subsequently apprehended.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the cadres were selling seized weapons on the instructions of self-styled Lance Corporal Naorem Bijoy @ Macha of UNLF (P). They also admitted to involvement in the earlier sale of looted arms and ammunition.
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Subsequently, a follow-up search operation was conducted by a joint team of Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, and CRPF at an unauthorized UNLF (P) camp located in Lamdeng. During the operation, security forces recovered and secured a large cache of arms and war-like stores, including 29 weapons comprising AK-series rifles, M-series rifles, pistols, and other firearms.
On Thursday, the joint security forces recovered an additional 28 weapons and heavy stores, including AK-series rifles, M-series rifles, sniper rifles, carbines, shotguns, mortars, an RPG-7 launcher, an anti-drone jammer, and a huge cache of explosives.
Security forces have urged the public to immediately report any information regarding looted or illegally possessed weapons to the nearest police station.