In a significant counter-insurgency success, security forces operating in Manipur’s Jiribam and Pherzawl districts recovered a cache of arms and ammunition during a search operation carried out between Chaudharykhal village (Jiribam district) and Savomphai village (Pherzawl district) under Borobekra Police Station, Jiribam.
According to official reports, the recovery included a variety of high-powered weapons, explosives, and communication devices believed to have been stashed away for use by insurgent groups.
Detailed Recovery List
| Sl. No. | Item Recovered | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 7.62mm AK-47 Rifle | 01 |
| 2 | 5.56mm INSAS Light Machine Gun | 01 |
| 3 | .303 Rifle | 01 |
| 4 | Single Barrel Rifle | 01 |
| 5 | 9mm Pistol | 01 |
| 6 | No. 36 Grenades | 02 |
| 7 | Ammunition Rounds (Mixed) | 36 |
| 8 | Handheld Radio Sets | 04 |
| 9 | Magazines (Various Rifles) | 03 |
Context and Significance
The discovery of these weapons adds to a series of recent recoveries across conflict-affected parts of Manipur. Officials say such stashes are often hidden in remote or forested areas to avoid detection and later retrieved by armed groups when needed.
A senior police officer noted that the presence of assault rifles, grenades, and communication sets points to preparations for organized militant activity. “Recoveries like these not only reduce the firepower of underground groups but also prevent potential violence in civilian areas,” he said.
Security forces have been on heightened alert in Jiribam and Pherzawl districts, both of which border sensitive regions. The operation, carried out jointly by police and paramilitary units, is part of ongoing efforts to neutralize insurgent networks and restore stability.
Way Forward
Authorities are now investigating which group the arms cache belonged to and whether the items were smuggled across the porous border or diverted from earlier conflicts. Forensic examination of the weapons is expected to provide leads.
Meanwhile, officials have appealed to local residents to cooperate with law enforcement by sharing information about suspicious activities in their areas.
The recovery underscores the complex security challenges in Manipur but also highlights the proactive measures being taken to prevent armed groups from escalating violence.