Imphal: Based on specific intelligence inputs about armed groups allegedly planning attacks on remote hill villages, Manipur Police, along with central paramilitary forces, carried out a joint combing operation in the Horei Kaphung Hills (Lower Leishan Ridge) area of Ukhrul district.
According to police, the operation lasted nearly five hours, during which security personnel spotted around a dozen armed individuals positioned on a hilltop. While several managed to escape, eight persons were apprehended by the forces.
During the operation, security personnel dismantled 16 unauthorized bunkers and recovered a significant cache of arms, ammunition and other war-like stores. The seized items included one SMG carbine, four bolt-action rifles, one 9mm pistol, one single-barrel 12-bore gun, live rounds, empty cartridge cases and a radio communication set.
Police said the detained individuals were disarmed and later released after being issued a stern warning against carrying weapons or entering restricted hill areas. The recovered firearms and related materials have been handed over to the concerned police station for further legal action.
Security forces have intensified surveillance in the region and reiterated that area domination and search operations will continue to ensure the safety of local communities and maintain peace and stability in the area.
