Security forces have intensified intelligence-based combing, cordon and search operations across Manipur to curb extortion and other criminal activities, leading to multiple arrests and recovery of arms and explosives, officials said.

On March 31, security personnel arrested an active cadre of Kangleipak Communist Party (Apunba), identified as Thokchom Tompok Singh (27), from his residence at Chana Mayai Leikai under Lamlai Police Station in Imphal East district.

In a separate operation on the same day, another active cadre of the outfit, Urikhinbam Bijeshranjan Meitei alias Abaicha (24) of Yourabung Khunou, was arrested from Pungdongbam Makha Leikai under Lamlai Police Station. A mobile phone was seized from his possession.

Meanwhile, during a search operation in the forest area of Saivom Ridge under Tengnoupal Police Station in Tengnoupal district, security forces recovered a cache of arms, ammunition and explosives. The items included four 9 mm pistols, four pistol magazines, and 12 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which were destroyed on the spot.

Additionally, clothing items and uniforms—comprising a combat shirt, two pairs of combat pants, two combat jackets, a combat cap—and one combat handbag were also recovered from the site.

Security forces said operations will continue to dismantle insurgent networks and prevent extortion-related activities in the State.