Crackdown Continues Amid Ethnic Tensions in Manipur
Imphal, April 1 — In a significant crackdown, five suspected members of the banned militant outfit Kangleipak Communist Party - Noyon (KCP-Noyon) were arrested on charges of extortion from different locations across Imphal East and Imphal West districts, police confirmed on Tuesday.The arrests were carried out on Monday as part of an ongoing effort to tackle insurgent activities in the region. A loaded 9 mm pistol was recovered during the operation, authorities said.
Identities of the Arrested Suspects
The individuals taken into custody have been identified as:- Khoisnam Sanajaoba Singh (27)
- Khoinaijam Robertson Singh (24)
- Soubam Rohit Singh (23)
- Leishangthem Naobi Singh (33)
- Khaidem Nongpoknganba Meitei (25)
Escalating Militant Activity Amid Ongoing Unrest
These arrests come amid a broader surge in militant crackdowns across both the Meitei-majority Imphal Valley and the Kuki-dominated hill districts. Authorities have reported a rising number of arrests tied to extortion and other militant activities, with insurgents reportedly exploiting the ongoing communal unrest to target small business owners and locals.Background: Ethnic Conflict and Political Turmoil
Manipur has been gripped by ethnic violence since May 2023, leading to over 250 deaths and displacing thousands of residents. The conflict has created deep divisions between the Meitei and Kuki communities.In a bid to restore order, President's Rule was imposed in the state in February this year, following the resignation of BJP leader N Biren Singh as Chief Minister. The central government continues to push for peace and stability in the violence-ravaged region.
