In a coordinated operation, the Assam Rifles and Manipur Police apprehended two active cadres of the proscribed militant outfit Kangleipak Communist Party (Military Force – MFL) from Lamphel, Imphal West, on 18 August 2025.
The swift action underscores ongoing efforts by security agencies to neutralize militant networks and maintain peace in the region. Both the arrested individuals and the recovered items were handed over to Lamphel Police Station for further investigation.
Growing Crackdown on Insurgent Groups
The arrest marks another step in the concerted crackdown on banned militant outfits that have been active across the Imphal valley. Security forces have increased their vigilance in recent weeks, conducting frequent area domination exercises, checkpoints, and targeted raids across vulnerable districts.
The KCP (MFL), a splinter group of the Kangleipak Communist Party, has been implicated in various cases of extortion, recruitment of youth, and attempts to destabilize the state through armed activities. Officials believe the latest arrests will aid in dismantling operational networks and gathering intelligence on the outfit’s present structure.
Joint Operations in Focus
Sources within the Assam Rifles emphasized that success in counter-insurgency relies heavily on joint coordination between paramilitary forces and state police, allowing for both intelligence-sharing and quick operational response.
The Lamphel operation was planned after inputs suggested the presence of KCP (MFL) cadres in the area. While the authorities have not disclosed the exact nature of the seized items, they confirmed that further interrogation and investigation are underway.
Community Engagement
Alongside these operations, Assam Rifles has been running awareness campaigns and outreach programs aimed at encouraging youth to refrain from joining banned groups and instead seek opportunities through government welfare schemes.
The arrests highlight the delicate balance between counter-insurgency operations and the need to ensure community participation in peacebuilding initiatives across Manipur.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to ensuring that those involved in unlawful activities face due process under the law while reaffirming their larger objective of restoring lasting peace in the state.