Imphal: The Manipur Police have recovered 15 stolen vehicles that were reportedly being used for extortion, crimes against women, and other criminal activities.
The recovery was made over the past 24 hours in Imphal East and Thoubal districts, following a surge in vehicle theft incidents.
The recovered vehicles include three Toyota Fortuners, three Mahindra Thar, and a Tata Safari, among other two-wheelers.
The police also arrested two individuals, Pussam Azamaluddin (28) and Makakmayum Nawaz Khan (23), who were found in possession of two of the stolen vehicles.
A senior police official confirmed that these stolen vehicles were being used to carry out a range of illegal activities, including extortion and crimes targeting women.
The police operation, which has been ongoing, will now expand to other districts to further combat vehicle theft and associated crimes.
Authorities have called on the public to assist by sharing information about stolen vehicles to support law enforcement efforts in tackling this growing issue.
ALSO READ: Tripura unveils bold plan to expand bamboo production for industrial use
In a separate operation, the Army and Assam Rifles launched intelligence-based operations in Tengnoupal, Imphal East, and Churachandpur districts, resulting in the arrest of two militants from hill and valley-based outfits.
The operation also led to the seizure of eight weapons, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), ammunition, and war-like stores.
Notably, the Assam Rifles apprehended a key operative of the Chin Kuki Mizo Army (CKMA), who was later confirmed to be involved in illegal activities.
The apprehended individuals and recovered materials have been handed over to the Manipur Police for further investigation.