Manipur: Four UNLF (P) Cadres Arrested, Huge Cache of Arms Recovered in Lamdeng

Manipur Police arrested four cadres of United National Liberation Front [UNLF (P)] and recovered a huge cache of arms, explosives and war-like stores during a series of operations conducted at Lamdeng under Lamsang Police Station on May 20 and 21.

Speaking to the media, Imphal West SP Ksh. Shivakanta said the operation was launched based on credible information regarding the sale of looted arms and ammunition in the Lamshang area. During the operation, two active cadres identified as Heishnam Thomas Singh (29) of Mayang Imphal Kokchai and Arambam Tomtom Singh (29) of Lamshang Heibongpokpi Mayai Leikai were apprehended along with one INSAS LMG, three INSAS LMG magazines and 14 live rounds.

The SP stated that while the arrest process was underway, associates of the cadres opened fire at the security forces, resulting in a brief exchange of fire. Subsequently, two more cadres, identified as Ningthoujam Rakesh Singh and Chingakham Mahesh Singh, were arrested for their alleged involvement in firing upon security personnel.

During preliminary interrogation, the arrested cadres reportedly disclosed that they had come to sell the seized weapon on the instructions of self-styled Lance Corporal Naorem Bijoy alias Macha of UNLF (P). They also allegedly admitted involvement in earlier sales of looted arms and ammunition.

Following the arrests, joint security forces comprising Manipur Police, Assam Rifles and Central Reserve Police Force conducted cordon and search operations at an unauthorised UNLF (P) camp at Lamdeng and recovered 29 weapons, including AK-series rifles, M-series rifles, pistols and other firearms.

On May 21, the joint forces recovered 38 additional weapons and heavy stores, including AK-series rifles, sniper rifles, carbines, shotguns, mortars, an RPG-7 launcher, anti-drone jammer, explosives, ammunition and other incriminating materials.