Manipur security forces arrest CKMA commander-in-chief; arms, ammunition and cash seized

IMPHAL — Security forces in Manipur have arrested Paokholen Guite, the self-styled Commander-in-Chief of the Chin Kuki Mizo Army (CKMA), accused of trafficking weapons and drugs across the India-Myanmar border.

Guite, a resident of P Mongjang village in Churachandpur district, was apprehended from S Munuam under Churachandpur Police Station. Police said he was involved in aiding non-SOO outfits such as UKNA and also engaged in extortion activities.

Recoveries made include two AK-47 rifles with magazines, 181 live rounds, one bulletproof pouch, INR 1 lakh in cash, two mobile phones and a Hyundai Creta.

In a separate development, district police launched an operation in T Kotlen village of Sajik Tampak area in Chandel district to apprehend a suspected drug kingpin, but the accused escaped. On their return, the police team was attacked by a protesting mob. With support from the Assam Rifles and CAPF, the situation was defused through dialogue.

Authorities said search operations and area domination continue in vulnerable districts, while movement of 114 vehicles carrying essential commodities along NH-37 was ensured.

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Drugs valued at INR 11 crore seized in Assam and Manipur; four arrested