Imphal: In a coordinated operation carried out early today at around 4:30 AM, security forces apprehended three suspected Kuki militants in Hengjol village, located under the jurisdiction of New Keithelmanbi Police Station in Kangpokpi District. The operation involved units from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Assam Rifles, and state security forces.
According to police reports, the security team seized three AK-series weapons, bulletproof jackets, live ammunition, mobile phones, and other incriminating documents during the raid. The operation saw participation from several CRPF units, including 32, 69, 86, 109, 143, and GC-QAT, along with Assam Rifles and state security personnel.
As security forces entered the village for a combing operation, the suspects reportedly fired at them. In the aftermath, a group of Kuki women gathered in protest. Security forces reportedly resorted to using tear gas to disperse the crowd, resulting in injuries to at least three women.
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In a related development, two suspected Kuki militants were arrested yesterday in Jiribam. They were allegedly involved in an attack on state security forces ahead of opposition leader Rahul Gandhi’s visit. The arrests in Jiribam also led to the seizure of several weapons.