BREAKING: At Least Seven Militants Arrested in Manipur in the last 48 hours; Police Intensify Crackdown on Extortion, Illegal Activities

IMPHAL: In a series of coordinated operations, security forces in Manipur arrested at least seven active cadres belonging to various banned Valley Based Insurgent Groups (VBIGs) of Manipur between August 8 and 9, 2025, as part of an ongoing crackdown on extortion and militant activities in the state.

On August 8, security forces apprehended Kshetrimayum Naoba Singh alias Jebashes (28) of Haobam Marak Irom Leikai, an active member of KCP (MFL), from his residence under Singjamei Police Station, Imphal West. He was allegedly involved in sharing contact details of doctors from the valley areas with his group for extortion purposes. A mobile phone and Aadhaar card were recovered from his possession.

The same day, Oinam Soniya Devi alias Tete (31), an active cadre of KCP (Taibangnganba) from Thanga Oinam Leikai, Bishnupur district, was arrested from Chingmeirong Maning Leikai under Lamphel Police Station. A mobile handset and Aadhaar card were seized.

On August 9, two members of KCP (Apunba) — Oinam Sanamacha Meitei alias John (27) and Lourembam Rakesh Singh alias Inao (23), both from Moidangpok Khunou Mamang Leikai, Imphal West — were nabbed near Phayeng under Lamsang Police Station. They were reportedly engaged in extorting schools in the valley by issuing threats and monetary demands. Police seized ₹6,400 in cash, two mobile phones, and a Honda Activa scooter without registration.

In Thoubal district, Chongtham Dilipkumar Singh alias Tomnao (26), an active member of KYKL, was arrested under Khongjom Police Station. He was allegedly involved in extortion, threats, kidnapping, and other prejudicial activities. Security forces recovered a 36 HE hand grenade, a mobile phone, SIM card, Aadhaar card, and a carry bag from him.

In separate operations in Imphal West and Bishnupur districts, two PREPAK (PRO) cadres were arrested. Sanjenbam Sanju Singh alias Thawailakpa (26) of Khabi Mayai Leikai, Nambol, was arrested from Thangtek under Nambol Police Station, while Wahengbam Kiran Singh alias Amuthoi (25) of Kumbi Thingel Leikai was apprehended from his residence. Both were accused of threatening local businessmen and extorting money. Police recovered mobile phones, SIM cards, and an Aadhaar card.

Meanwhile, Manipur Police also intensified action against motor vehicle violations. On August 9, a total of 66 challans amounting to ₹1,11,500 were issued to offenders. On August 8, tinted films were removed from nine vehicles as part of the enforcement drive.

Authorities said the arrests and seizures reflect the ongoing efforts to dismantle militant networks and curb unlawful activities across the state.

With input from Manipur Police Facebook Page.