Imphal: Security forces have arrested two militants linked to recent firing incidents in Manipur’s Imphal West district, police said on Sunday.
The two arrested men are active cadres of the banned Kangleipak Communist Party (Noyon faction).
They were apprehended on Saturday from the Sagolband and Phumlou areas following an investigation into multiple firing incidents reported on January 9 in Langjing Achouba, Ghari and Sangaiprou localities, a senior police officer said.
Police said a series of search operations were launched across the district, during which CCTV footage from the affected areas was examined.
The arrests were made after investigators established the duo’s involvement in the incidents. An M-20 pistol along with live ammunition was recovered from their possession.
According to the police, the two militants were earlier involved in at least eight other firing cases in the district.
In a separate operation on Saturday, security forces recovered a cache of arms and ammunition from Awlmun village in Kangpokpi district.
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The seizure included seven rifles, four improvised mortars, two hand grenades and ammunition, police said.
Security operations have been intensified across Manipur since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023.
The clashes between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups have so far claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands of people.
Following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh last year, the Centre imposed President’s Rule in the state.
The Manipur Legislative Assembly, which has a tenure till 2027, remains under suspended animation.
