Imphal, Jan 16: Elite Para Special Forces, in coordination with the Assam Rifles, have launched a major anti-insurgency operation in the Henglep subdivision, targeting cadres of the United Kuki National Army (UKNA), a non-Suspension of Operations (Non-SoO) militant group.
According to sources, the operation is intelligence-driven and aims to neutralize armed militants, recover illegal arms and ammunition, and dismantle insurgent hideouts in the region. Security forces have intensified surveillance and search activities while prioritizing civilian safety and minimizing collateral damage.
In a related development, similar joint operations were launched in the early hours of January 16 at Wainem village, Kangpoki district. Initiated around 6 am, the cordon-and-search operation is focused on targeting armed anti-national elements following specific intelligence inputs. Officials said the operation remains ongoing, with security forces maintaining a tight cordon in the area.
Security agencies noted that the current operations follow earlier successful actions against the UKNA. On November 4, 2025, security forces neutralised four UKNA cadres in an intelligence-based operation at Khanpi. During the same operation, one injured cadre was apprehended. In subsequent follow-up operations, five more UKNA cadres, including a juvenile, were arrested from Sankhot village, with arms and ammunition recovered.
The United Kuki National Army is a proscribed non-SoO group and is not part of any formal ceasefire or peace agreement with the government. Security forces have reiterated their commitment to restoring peace and stability in Manipur through sustained, intelligence-led operations.
