Security forces arrested three active cadres of different banned outfits and recovered a large cache of arms and explosives in separate operations across Manipur over the past two days.

According to police, an active member of the proscribed Kangleipak Communist Party (PWG), identified as Oinam Somenchandra Singh (41), was arrested from Taothong Khunou, Imphal West district. He was allegedly involved in extorting money from shops and the public. A pistol with a magazine was seized from his possession.

In another operation, a cadre of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), identified as Phanjoubam Ramanada Singh (23), was apprehended from Huikap Makha Leikai in Imphal East district on Sunday.

On Monday, security forces also arrested an active cadre of the KCP (MFL) from Takhel in Imphal East district, the police said.

Meanwhile, in a separate operation in Singtom village, Kakching district, security forces recovered a huge cache of arms, ammunition and explosives. The haul included an INSAS rifle, a bolt-action rifle, two 51mm mortars, two country-made carbines, one .32 pistol, seven IEDs, 56 cartridges of various calibres, two tear smoke grenades, along with other warlike stores.

Police said further investigation is underway.