Imphal, July 18, 2025:
Security forces in Manipur arrested two militants from proscribed outfits for their alleged involvement in extortion-related crimes, officials confirmed on Friday. The arrests come amid ongoing search and area domination operations across the conflict-ridden state, still recovering from two years of ethnic violence and insurgency.

One of the arrested militants is a cadre of the banned People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (Prepak), police said.

Prepak Militant Held in Bishnupur District

According to senior police officials, the Prepak cadre was arrested on Wednesday, July 16, from the Thinungei Mamang Paton area in Bishnupur district, a region known for sporadic insurgent movements in recent months.

The arrest was made following credible intelligence inputs gathered over the past few weeks. The accused was reportedly involved in collecting money from local traders and businesses under the threat of violence.

A mobile phone, demand letters, and certain documents related to Prepak's activities were also seized from the arrested militant. Police are verifying the extent of his network and role in the larger extortion syndicate allegedly linked with multiple proscribed organisations.

Second Arrest Adds to Security Forces' Gains

While the identity of the second arrested militant has not yet been disclosed, officials say he also belongs to a banned insurgent group operating in the region. His arrest was made separately but is linked to the same extortion racket, believed to be operating in both valley and hill districts of the state.

Security forces believe the network has been reviving slowly after lying low during the peak of ethnic tensions. Extortion is being used as a way to raise funds and re-establish local influence in some remote areas.

Part of Larger Crackdown Since 2023 Violence

Manipur has witnessed continuous unrest since May 2023, when ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities escalated into widespread violence. Since then, the Army, Assam Rifles, CRPF, and local police have jointly carried out search operations, seized arms and ammunition, and arrested dozens of individuals linked to insurgent groups.

The latest arrests are being seen as part of this ongoing crackdown on unlawful militant networks, especially those trying to exploit the fragile law and order situation through criminal activities like extortion and arms trafficking.

A senior police officer in Imphal said,

“We are keeping a close watch on all insurgent activities. No one will be allowed to take advantage of the situation in Manipur. The operations will continue.”

Public Cooperation and Intelligence Key to Progress

Security agencies have stressed the importance of community support in tracking down insurgents. “Local intelligence is proving critical in locating militants hiding in plain sight,” said an officer involved in the current operation.

Many residents in conflict-affected districts are also reportedly sharing information anonymously, fearing retaliation but hopeful that normalcy will return with coordinated police efforts.

Meanwhile, the arrested militants are being interrogated for further leads, and more arrests could follow in the coming days, say officials.

State Government Silent, Civil Society Groups Express Concern

The Manipur government has yet to officially comment on the arrests. However, civil society groups and community leaders in Bishnupur have urged authorities to ensure that the operations are conducted fairly and without harassment of innocent locals.

They have also demanded that any accused involved in extortion, trafficking, or arson be dealt with strictly under the law.

One local trader in Bishnupur said,

“These extortionists are a threat to peace. We are already struggling due to instability. We support the police in catching the real criminals.”

Conclusion: Long Road Ahead to Stability in Manipur

The arrest of the two militants is being seen as a small but crucial victory in Manipur’s long and difficult road back to law and order. The state remains on edge due to the lingering after-effects of ethnic violence, and the threat of insurgency returning through criminal routes like extortion, drug trade, and arms trafficking is real.

Authorities say intensified patrolling, surveillance, and community outreach will continue to ensure that militants find no safe haven in any part of the state.

The success of such operations, however, will ultimately depend on sustained public trust, political unity, and a non-partisan approach to justice.

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