Imphal, Feb 18: Security forces conducted a series of coordinated operations across Manipur on February 18, 2026, recovering a cache of arms and explosives and arresting three active cadres of proscribed militant outfits.
 |
| Security personnel display seized arms, ammunition and explosives outside Wangoi Police Station following operations in Imphal West district. (Image: X@/manipur_police) |
In Imphal West district, a search operation at the Loitang Leikinthabi hill range under Sekmai Police Station led to the recovery of one AK-47 Ghatak rifle with magazine, two .303 rifles, one double-barrel rifle, one single-barrel rifle, three No. 36 HE grenades and five improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
In another operation at Hiyangthang Tarahei Awang Leikai foothill under Wangoi Police Station, security personnel recovered three hand grenades, one high explosive bomb, 15 live rounds of ammunition of different calibres, four 5.56 mm empty cases, one tube launcher and two unidentified explosives marked “green 90 AKFG.”
 |
| Security forces display arms and explosives recovered during search operations in Manipur on February 18, 2026. (Image: X@/manipur_police) |
Meanwhile, from the general area of Yangoubung near BP-72 under Moreh Police Station in Tengnoupal district, security forces seized two pistols along with magazines and two Chinese hand grenades, which were destroyed in situ.
In separate operations, security forces arrested Haobam Bijoy alias Nanao alias Joy (37), an active cadre of UNLF (Koireng), from his residence at Lamlongei Maning Leikai under Lamshang Police Station, Imphal West. A mobile phone and Aadhaar card were seized from his possession.
ALSO READ: Security Forces Recover Arms in Imphal West, Dismantle Bunkers in Ukhrul
An extortionist linked to KCP (PWG), Huiningsumbam Suresh Meitei alias Kalambus alias Lion (34) of Singjamei Chinga Makha, was also arrested from his residence under Singjamei Police Station. A two-wheeler and mobile phone were recovered from him.
Additionally, Laishram Basanta Singh alias Ratan alias Ithoi (53), an active cadre of RPF/PLA from Thoubal Wangkhem Mayai, was arrested from Khangabok area under Thoubal Police Station. He was reportedly involved in recruitment of cadres and monitoring the movement of security forces, allegedly passing information to his handlers.
Further investigation is underway in all cases.
