Imphal, February 28: In response to rising concerns over extortion activities by illegal armed groups, Kangpokpi Superintendent of Police Manoj Prabhakar has issued strict instructions to police personnel in the district not to yield to monetary demands from such organizations.
According to an official notification released on Friday, SP Prabhakar stated, "It has been reported that a few illegal organisations are demanding money from police personnel in Kangpokpi. It is hereby instructed to the rank and file of Kangpokpi district police to abstain from yielding to the demand."
The notice further advised any police personnel facing such threats or coercion to immediately report the incidents to the office of the SP Kangpokpi for prompt assistance and intervention.
This directive comes amid heightened tensions due to ongoing extortion attempts by armed groups, who have been actively imposing illegal taxes and soliciting donations from residents and officials under the guise of the ongoing conflict in Manipur.
Over the past two months, security forces across Manipur have intensified crackdowns on such extortion networks, resulting in the arrest of more than 50 militants directly linked to these criminal activities.
Earlier in January, the Manipur government took decisive action by establishing a specialized anti-extortion cell under the Home Department. This dedicated team comprises personnel from the state police, central armed forces, and the Indian Army, aimed at creating a robust, efficient mechanism to swiftly address threats related to illegal monetary demands and ensure the overall safety of the public.
Officials noted that the formation of this anti-extortion cell was prompted by numerous reports of threats—via phone calls, messages, and letters—targeting individuals, including government officials, to force compliance with unlawful financial demands.
Authorities have urged vigilance and prompt reporting of any such threats, ensuring that measures are actively enforced to curb extortion and maintain peace and security across the region.