MANIPUR: In an impressive display of coordination and efficiency, the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and Manipur Police recently recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition in Manipur during multiple joint operations. The operations, driven by intelligence inputs, aim to neutralize insurgent activities and curb the illicit arms trade along the Indo-Myanmar border.
Details of the Operations
During operations conducted in Thoubal and Churachandpur districts, security forces made significant breakthroughs:
- Thoubal District: Searches near Fungei Ching and Pechi led to the recovery of 18 sophisticated weapons, including 7.62 mm SLR rifles, 9mm pistols, and 12-bore single-barrel shotguns, alongside a substantial amount of ammunition and war-like materials.
- Churachandpur District: Operations around Phaikhothang village yielded additional arms and explosives.
These efforts highlight the military’s resolve in tackling insurgent elements exploiting porous borders for arms smuggling and destabilizing the region.
Escalating Tensions in Manipur
The northeastern state of Manipur has witnessed an escalation in ethnic violence since May 2023. The conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities has resulted in over 260 deaths and displaced more than 60,000 residents. Security analysts attribute the intensification to the spillover of fighters and arms from Myanmar’s ongoing civil war.
The influx of sophisticated weapons from across the border has amplified local tensions, prompting heightened military operations.
Government and Military Response
To restore stability, the Indian government has significantly reinforced its security presence in Manipur. Nearly 67,000 troops and 30,000 police personnel are now deployed to address the dual challenges of insurgency and ethnic unrest.
The success of these recent operations reflects the commitment of security forces to dismantle insurgent networks and ensure long-term peace in the region.
Source: Web Team, C6N
