Manipur Security Forces Intensify Operations, Arrest 24 Cadres Amid Rising Violence
Security forces in Manipur have launched a major crackdown, arresting 24 cadres from banned militant outfits in recent operations along the India-Myanmar border and in valley districts. This comes as fresh incidents of firing and mob violence have erupted in Ukhrul and Kamjong districts, leaving villagers injured and communities on high alert.
Arrests Along the India-Myanmar Border
On Tuesday, police reported the arrest of 10 cadres belonging to the banned People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) (RA) near border pillars 77-82 under the Moreh police station in Tengnoupal district. Notably, five of those apprehended were minors, who are being handled under the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act. This operation highlights the ongoing efforts to curb militant activities in the sensitive border region.
Crackdown in Thoubal District
In a separate operation on Sunday, security forces arrested 14 cadres of the United National Liberation Front (Koireng) from the Haokhong area in Thoubal district. During the raid, forces seized a significant cache of weapons and materials, including two INSAS rifles, 13 magazines, 100 cartridges, Rs 1 lakh in cash, and helmets. These arrests underscore the persistent threat posed by insurgent groups in Manipur's interior districts.
Fresh Violence Erupts in Ukhrul and Kamjong
Meanwhile, tensions flared anew on Tuesday in Ukhrul and Kamjong districts. Two men from Sharkaphung village in Kamjong, both members of the Tangkhul Naga community, sustained bullet injuries after suspected militants opened fire from the nearby area of Mongkot Chepu. This incident adds to the volatile situation in a region already scarred by past conflicts.
The villages involved are located close to Litan Sareikhong in Ukhrul district, where clashes between Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities broke out in February, resulting in the torching of more than 30 houses. In a related incident on Monday, a woman from Mongkot Chepu village, a Kuki habitation, was injured by gunfire while working in the fields. She was promptly shifted to Kangpokpi district and is reported to be out of danger, but the event has further strained inter-community relations.
Community Organizations Raise Alarms
Community organizations have expressed deep concern over the escalating violence. The Tangkhul Naga Foothills Organisation has accused Kuki militants, who are under the suspension of operations (SoO) agreement, of involvement in the attacks. They have demanded the immediate deployment of state forces in Sharkaphung and Thoyee to restore order and protect civilians.
Similarly, the Kuki CSO working committee in Ukhrul has condemned the firing on villagers engaged in routine agricultural work, calling for peace and stability in the region. These statements reflect the growing anxiety among local populations as security challenges persist.
The intensified operations by security forces aim to dismantle militant networks and prevent further violence, but the recent incidents highlight the fragile security environment in Manipur. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with a focus on protecting communities and maintaining law and order along the border and in conflict-prone districts.
