Updated: June 15, 2025, 02:00 IST
In the intervening night of June 13–14, joint teams of the Manipur Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the Indian Army, and Assam Rifles conducted intelligence-led raids across five valley districts—Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching—resulting in the seizure of 328 firearms and over 9,300 rounds of ammunition. This marks one of the largest recent recoveries in the state, underscoring ongoing efforts to curb illegal arms circulation amid prolonged unrest.
Operation Overview
- Date & Districts: Night of June 13–14, 2025; Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Bishnupur, Kakching.
- Agencies Involved: Manipur Police, CAPFs (CRPF, BSF, ITBP), Indian Army, Assam Rifles.
- Seized Arms & Stores:
- 151 Self‑Loading Rifles (SLRs)
- 65 INSAS rifles
- 73 other rifles (carbines, AK‑series, Amogh)
- 5 carbines, 2 MP5 submachine guns, 12 LMGs, 1 AR‑15, 1 mortar
- 591 magazines; 9,300+ rounds across calibers; 10 grenades; 7 detonators timesofindia.indiatimes.comeconomictimes.indiatimes.com
ADGP Lhari Dorjee Lhatoo detailed the operation:
“Based on specific intelligence, simultaneous searches were launched in five valley districts, leading to the recovery of 328 firearms and extensive warlike stores. Such precision operations will continue until lasting peace is restored.” assamtribune.com
Expert Analysis
Dr. Anjali Rao, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Conflict Studies, emphasizes:
“Large‑scale arms recoveries disrupt illicit supply chains and create leverage for dialogue. However, sustainable peace requires parallel efforts in community reconciliation and socioeconomic development.”
A 2024 report by the Ministry of Home Affairs noted a 15% uptick in illegal arms recoveries in northeastern India, highlighting Manipur as a focal point due to its porous borders and ethnic tensions.
What This Means for Manipur
- Public Safety: Removing these weapons significantly reduces the operational capacity of armed groups.
- Security Posture: Demonstrates the efficacy of intelligence sharing among state and central agencies.
- Community Confidence: Visible actions help rebuild trust after cycles of violence since May 2023.
Fact‑Check
| Claim | Source |
|---|---|
| 328 firearms seized | Times of India; Economic Times timesofindia.indiatimes.comeconomictimes.indiatimes.com |
| 9,300+ rounds of ammunition recovered | Economic Times economictimes.indiatimes.com |
| Participating agencies & districts confirmed | ANI press briefing assamtribune.com |
No significant discrepancies found among primary sources.
Daily Digest
- Manipur Unrest Tracker: Weekly update on security operations and community outreach.
- Border Watch: Latest on cross‑border smuggling routes.
- Peacebuilding Spotlight: Profiles of local reconciliation initiatives.
For real‑time updates, follow our Live Blog and share verified information via the Central Control Room at 1800‑345‑6789.
Author:
Riya Sen, National Security Correspondent
With 12 years covering internal security and conflict zones for major national outlets. Connect: LinkedIn | Twitter
