Security forces in Manipur rescue civilians, ensure safe return

IMPHAL — Central security forces rescued a 35-year-old Meitei from Kangpokpi district and safely handed him over to his family, while two Kuki individuals who were found ‘lingering’ in Imphal East district were also handed over to their families by the security forces.

According to a press note issued by Manipur Police late on October 4, the two persons were identified as Lalminlun (45) of H Lhangjol village and Sesem (45) of Sangran village. They were found lingering at Yaingangpokpi Bazar in Imphal East district and were subsequently handed over to their families.

Earlier, on October 2, security forces rescued one Soyam Sanayamba Thomas (35) of Thamnapokpi village under Yaingangpokpi Police Station in Imphal East district after he had strayed into Twinomjang village in Kangpokpi district. Police stated that he too had been safely reunited with his family.

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The state has been witnessing ongoing violence between the two communities since a rally turned violent in May last year. Over 200 people have reportedly lost their lives, and more than 50,000 people remain internally displaced, many of whom are staying in relief camps across the state.

Meanwhile, security forces recovered 2,000 WY tablets valued at approximately INR 16,66,000 from the residence of one Chinhat (44) of Tuibong in Churachandpur district on October 4.

RPF distances itself from alleged cadres

In a separate development, the proscribed Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF) denied any connection with two individuals whom the state police claimed to have arrested in Imphal West district on October 3. The outfit issued a clarification on Sunday refuting the police’s claim.

Police had earlier stated that two active cadres of RPF/PLA were arrested from the Chingmeirong Mamang Leikai area under Lamphel Police Station in Imphal West district.

They were identified as Thangjam Abung Meetei (31) of Leirongthel Pitra under Thoubal district and a resident of Wangkhei Ningthem Pukhri Mapal in Imphal East district and Naorem Priyobarta Singh, alias Tamo (27), of Kakching Wairi Sabal Leikai under Kakching district.

According to police, the two were involved in extortion from the public in the valley area and in mediating through intimidation between parties in loan recovery cases.

Items seized from their possession included a .45 GLOCK pistol with a magazine loaded with 11 rounds, three mobile phones, two wallets, two Aadhaar cards, a four-wheeler, cash amounting to INR 1,26,900, one arms licence, and a side bag.