Imphal: Security forces arrested several alleged arms dealers and insurgent operatives and seized a cache of weapons and explosives in a series of coordinated operations across Manipur, officials said on Sunday.
In Churachandpur district, two exploded 81 mm mortar shells were recovered from Matijang and Phuoljang villages under Churachandpur police station on Saturday.
In Imphal East, an alleged arms dealer, Md. Sanajaoba (30) of Urup Awang Leikai, was arrested from Porompat Ayangpalli Road. Police said three locally made firearms and two magazines were seized from him.
In another operation, Jiribam police arrested Moirangthem Bijen Singh (55) from Dibong Awang Leikai. Two No. 36 hand grenades and five rounds of ammunition of different calibres were recovered from his possession.
Security forces also arrested Thokchom Kheljit Meitei alias Canny (48), an alleged cadre of the proscribed People's Liberation Army (PLA), from the Hapta Kangjeibung area under Porompat police station. A mobile phone was seized from him.
Another alleged insurgent, Kharibam Boynao Meitei alias Lamngakpa (32), linked to the United People's Party of Kangleipak (UPPK), was apprehended from his residence in Imphal East district.
A cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered from Moidangpok Khunou under Patsoi police station in Imphal West district. The haul included three locally made bolt-action single-barrel guns, two pistols with magazines, a 2-inch mortar, four 38 mm anti-riot cartridges, five rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition, a bulletproof vest, a belt and two bags.
In a separate recovery from forested areas of Tuinomjang and Sanasabi under Yaingangpokpi police station, security personnel seized a .22 pistol with a magazine and a .22 rifle.