Imphal: A joint team of central and state security forces arrested three insurgents and recovered arms, ammunition and explosive materials in a series of anti-insurgency operations conducted across the state in the past 24 hours, officials said on Wednesday.
Sorokhaibam Inaoton Singh, alias Nojan (39), a member of the proscribed People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK), was arrested from his residence at Lamsang Thong Maning under Lamsang police station in Imphal West district.
In a separate operation, another PREPAK cadre, Sagolshem John Singh (43), a resident of Thoubal Haokha Mamang Leikai in Thoubal district, was apprehended from his locality. Security personnel seized one mobile phone, two SIM cards and a two-wheeler from his possession.
In another operation, at Yangoubung village under Moreh police station in Tengnoupal district, Yambem Lukhoi (21), also identified as a PREPAK cadre and a resident of Nongmeibung in Imphal East district, was arrested.
Information obtained during interrogation of the arrested cadres led security forces to conduct a follow-up operation at the Nungai Hill Range area under Sagolmang police station in Imphal East district.
During the search, security personnel recovered one country-made rifle, a country-made 9 mm pistol with a magazine, one HE-36 hand grenade, five rounds of .303 ammunition, a bulletproof jacket with two metal plates, one magazine pouch, two bulletproof helmets and three slings.
Officials said the arrested individuals and the seized items have been handed over to the respective police stations for further legal proceedings.