Manipur: Six Militants Arrested for Extortion, Kidnapping; Arms Cache Recovered

In a significant crackdown, security forces in Manipur have arrested six militants, including a minor, allegedly involved in extortion, intimidation and kidnapping. The arrests were made in the Imphal Valley districts, police said on Wednesday (August 26, 2026).

The detained individuals are believed to be cadres of the banned United People's Party of Kangleipak (UPPK), an insurgent group active in the state. They were apprehended on Tuesday (August 25) from different locations in Bishnupur, Imphal East and Imphal West districts in a coordinated operation, according to an official statement.

Among those held is P. Koireng Singh, a 51-year-old employee of the State Forest Department, who was arrested at the Koirengei Forest Gate in Imphal West. He was working as a 'mali' (gardener) in the department, the statement said. His alleged involvement in militant activities has raised concerns about the potential infiltration of state departments by insurgent sympathizers.

The police seized 23 letterheads of UPPK from the possession of the arrested militants. During interrogation, the accused confessed to their involvement in kidnapping, extortion and intimidation, the statement added. The recovery of letterheads suggests the group had been using them for issuing extortion demands and threat messages.

In a separate operation, a joint team of Manipur Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) conducted a cordon and search operation at Taphou Kuki in Kangpokpi district and the adjoining Taphou Liangmai in Senapati district on Tuesday. The operation led to the seizure of a cache of arms and ammunition, including two SBBL guns, 78 rounds of 12-bore cartridges, and empty cases of AK-47 and .22 rifles. Security forces also destroyed two bunkers at Taphou Kuki and one at Taphou Liangmai during the operation, the statement said.

These operations come as part of the ongoing efforts by security agencies to curb insurgent activities in Manipur, a state that has been plagued by decades of insurgency and periodic ethnic violence. The UPPK is one of several armed groups that have been demanding a separate administration for the Kangleipak region. The group has been banned under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for its involvement in violent activities.

The police have stated that the minor arrested in connection with the case will be dealt with under the Juvenile Justice Act. The authorities have not revealed further details about the minor's identity or role in the group.

This crackdown is expected to provide some relief to the local population, which has often been subjected to extortion and threats from militant groups. The police have urged citizens to report any suspicious activity to assist in maintaining peace and order in the state.

The latest action comes against the backdrop of ongoing hostilities in Manipur, where clashes between communities have resulted in loss of lives and displacement. The security forces have been conducting sustained operations to stabilise the region and dismantle the networks of outlawed groups.