Manipur Police on Monday confirmed that Ashem Kanan Singh, who was recently arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), is a former head constable who was dismissed from service earlier this year for alleged involvement in serious criminal activities.

In an official post on X (formerly Twitter), the police stated, “Ashem Kanan Singh (46) was arrested by CBI in Imphal. He was a Head Constable in Manipur Police till he was terminated from service on 3rd March 2025 for his involvement in various criminal activities, including cross-border smuggling of arms.”

The statement further added that Singh’s arrest was related to multiple grave offences and ongoing criminal investigations. “He was arrested for his criminal activities which include several acts of grave nature and involvement in unlawful activities and criminal cases registered against him,” the police said.

Following his arrest, widespread protests erupted in the valley districts of the state on the evening of June 7. However, authorities reported that Manipur Police and security forces have since brought the situation under control.