Security forces in Manipur intensified their area domination and search operations in fringe and vulnerable zones across the state, leading to a major recovery of arms, ammunition, and explosives from Nepali Khutti, Kotlen under the jurisdiction of New Keithelmanbi Police Station in Kangpokpi district.
The operation, carried out as part of ongoing counter-insurgency and anti-criminal initiatives, unearthed a significant cache of weapons and war-like stores that could potentially be used in acts of violence or extortion, police sources confirmed.
Items Recovered During the Operation
| Category | Item Description | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Firearms | Bolt Action Rifles | 3 |
| Single Barrel Rifles | 4 | |
| Pull Mechanism Rifles | 2 | |
| Open Bore Pistol | 1 | |
| Explosives and Launchers | Improvised Mortars | 6 |
| White Phosphorus Grenades | 3 | |
| No. 36 Hand Grenades | 3 | |
| No. 36 Hand Grenade Detonators | 5 | |
| No. 36 Hand Grenade Arming Rings | 4 | |
| No. 36 Hand Grenade Keys | 4 | |
| UBGL Shells (Under Barrel Grenade Launcher) | 2 | |
| Tube Launchers | 4 | |
| Ammunition | Rubber Bullets | 45 |
| 7.62mm Live Round | 1 | |
| Single Barrel Live Rounds | 6 | |
| 7.62mm Blank Rounds | 11 | |
| Riot Control | Tear Smoke Grenade | 1 |
| Tear Gas Shells | 2 |
Security Forces Maintain High Vigilance
A senior police official stated that the recovery was made possible through intelligence-driven search operations that continue to be intensified, especially in fringe villages and suspected militant hideouts. The recovered items have been taken into custody for forensic examination and to trace potential linkages to insurgent outfits operating in the region.
He added, “Such seizures are critical in preventing escalation of violence and maintaining the fragile peace in conflict-prone zones.”
Focus on Preventing Militant Activities
The security agencies have reiterated their commitment to sustaining high-alert operations in vulnerable zones, particularly in hill areas such as Kangpokpi district, which have recently witnessed increased incidents of arms smuggling and underground group activity.
Police believe that the weapons were likely stored for use in subversive activities or to intimidate local populations. Investigations are ongoing to identify the individuals or groups responsible for storing the arsenal.