Security forces intensified operations against insurgent networks in Manipur on February 22 and 23, 2026, arresting an active cadre of the proscribed Kangleipak Communist Party (Military Faction) (KCP‑MFL) and seizing a large cache of firearms, ammunition and communication equipment across Imphal East, Thoubal and Chandel districts. The coordinated raids over the two days targeted suspected arms stashes in valley and semi‑forested pockets and are being viewed as an important push to dismantle underground networks operating in the region.
On February 23, security personnel arrested Khaidem Joychandra Meitei, also known as Inaocha, 55, from Lamlai Mamang Leikai Samu Lambel in Imphal East under the jurisdiction of Lamlai Police Station. Officials said 50 rounds of 7.62×39 mm live ammunition, used in AK‑series rifles, were recovered from his possession during the operation, and the arrest is being seen as a significant development in curbing militant activity in the valley districts.
In a separate operation the same day at Tentha Erel Ching under Khongjom Police Station in Thoubal district, forces recovered what they described as a substantial arms cache. Seized items included an SMG carbine with a magazine, three bolt‑action rifles, two single‑barrel breech‑loading (SBBL) guns, a .32 pistol with magazine, a .32 live round, a 9 mm blank cartridge and three helmets, indicating continued attempts by militant groups to conceal weapons in remote areas.
A day earlier, on February 22, a search between T. Bollok and L. Molhoi villages under Chakpikarong Police Station in Chandel district uncovered a wide array of firearms and communication devices. Recovered material included a G‑3 rifle with an empty magazine, three country‑made Lathode guns, two single‑barrel guns, three locally made Pompi shells, four Pompi guns, two locally made carbines with empty magazines, two magazine pouches, 55 rounds of 7.62 mm live ammunition reportedly for AK rifles, eight Baofeng handheld radio sets and a dagger with its cover.
Security officials say the seizures reflect persistent efforts by militants to stockpile arms across diverse terrain in Manipur. The arrests and recoveries over February 22–23, 2026, are expected to feed ongoing investigations into insurgent supply lines and hideouts in the three affected districts.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/manipur/story/manipur-security-forces-arrest-kcp-mfl-cadre-massive-arms-cache-seized-1350745-2026-02-24?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-02-24 08:04:00
