Four militants arrested in Manipur; arms recovered

In Manipur, four members of banned militant groups were arrested in the last 24 hours. The arrests took place in Imphal West and Bishnupur districts, according to police reports on March 18, 2025. One of the arrested men, Lourembam Brojen Singh, is 50 years old and a member of the Peoples' Liberation Army. He was caught at Langol Game Village Zone III. Another suspect, Romiyo Singh, belongs to the Prepak/Uppk group. He was arrested in Shamurou Naorem Chaprou Makha Leikai for allegedly extorting money from local people and shopkeepers. Police also arrested Laishram Tomba Singh, a cadre of the Kangleipak Communist Party (PWG), at his home in Haoreibei Mayai Leikai. He is accused of similar extortion activities. The fourth suspect, Khundrakpam Michael Singh, was arrested in Bishnupur district. He had information that led to the recovery of weapons, including a 9 mm pistol and ammunition. On March 17, security forces found additional weapons, including three arms and four hand grenades, at Ngariyan Hill in Imphal East. Authorities have increased their search operations since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023. This conflict has led to over 250 deaths and many people displaced. The Indian government imposed President's rule in the state on February 13, following the resignation of N. Biren Singh, and the state assembly is currently suspended.