Security forces have arrested a key operative allegedly responsible for a systematic extortion campaign targeting educational institutions and ordinary citizens across Manipur’s valley region.

The suspect, identified as 33-year-old Yumnam Milanjit Meitei, was apprehended on August 16 during a targeted operation in Ghari Makha Leikai, under the jurisdiction of Lamphel Police Station in Imphal West district.

Milanjit Meitei is believed to be an active member of the Kangleipak Communist Party (PWG) and is accused of coordinating extortion activities from his base in Lairenkabi Awang Leikai Mamang Leirak.

Authorities recovered one mobile phone from Meitei at the time of his arrest. Officials say the device is expected to yield crucial evidence linking him to the extortion network that has been preying on colleges and civilians across the valley.

The arrest is part of a broader security operation that combines intelligence-led raids with systematic cordon-and-search missions aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating in the state.