In a major counter-insurgency operation, security forces in Manipur arrested two active members of the banned People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and recovered a cache of sophisticated arms and explosives during coordinated operations across Imphal East and Imphal West districts on February 17, 2026.

According to official sources, a self-styled private of the PLA’s RPF wing, Athokpam Manaoton Meitei alias Tamanao alias Malem alias Amujao (42), a resident of Chana Mayai Leikai under Lamlai Police Station in Imphal East district, was apprehended from Sawombung.

In a separate operation conducted the same day, security forces arrested a self-styled lieutenant of the PLA, Ningthoujam Ibungocha alias Sathouba Meitei (38), from Yaingangpokpi Bazar under Yaingangpokpi Police Station in Imphal East district. He is reportedly involved in extortion activities. A mobile phone along with a SIM card was seized from his possession.

Meanwhile, security personnel recovered a significant cache of weapons and explosives from an area along Ngairangbam Tanoukhul Road towards Longa Koireng under Patsoi Police Station in Imphal West district. The seized items included one double-barrel gun, one country-made pistol with a magazine, 181 rounds of ammunition of various calibres, three magazines, two No. 36 hand grenades, one detonator, and a Baofeng wireless handset with charger.

Officials stated that the recoveries indicate continued attempts by insurgent elements to regroup and destabilise sensitive areas.

Security forces have intensified search operations and area domination exercises across fringe and vulnerable zones in both hill and valley districts of the state. As part of the ongoing security grid, a total of 103 nakas and checkpoints were set up across Manipur, though no detentions were reported during these checks.