In a significant crackdown on militant activities, security forces destroyed 23 illegal bunkers and seized 18 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during a coordinated operation in Manipur's Imphal East district. The operation, conducted jointly by the Indian Army and state police, targeted hideouts used by insurgent groups in the region.
Operation Details
The search and destroy mission was launched based on specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of militant camps in the forested areas of Imphal East. Troops from the Army's 57 Mountain Division, along with personnel from the Manipur Police, cordoned off the area and conducted thorough searches. During the operation, 23 bunkers constructed with logs and earth were dismantled, and 18 IEDs, along with a large quantity of ammunition and explosives, were recovered.
Seized Materials
Apart from the IEDs, security forces also seized detonators, gelatin sticks, and other explosive materials. The bunkers were reportedly used by militants as safe havens for planning attacks and storing weapons. The destruction of these bunkers is expected to significantly disrupt the operational capabilities of insurgent groups in the state.
Ongoing Efforts
The operation is part of a larger strategy to neutralize militant threats in Manipur, which has witnessed sporadic violence despite ongoing peace initiatives. Security forces have intensified patrolling and intelligence-gathering activities to preempt any potential threats. Officials stated that similar operations would continue in other vulnerable areas to ensure the safety of civilians and maintain law and order.
The successful destruction of the bunkers and seizure of IEDs marks a major success for the security forces in their fight against insurgency. No casualties were reported during the operation, and the area has been declared safe for local residents.
