Imphal: The imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur has brought renewed focus on the state’s security situation, with authorities intensifying crackdowns on illegal activities amid ongoing ethnic unrest. In a significant development, Manipur Police arrested five individuals on Thursday night for their involvement in a viral video that showed them playing football while carrying assault rifles, including AK-47s.
The video, which surfaced on platforms like YouTube, WhatsApp, and Facebook, sparked widespread concern as it depicted 10-15 individuals, some dressed in camouflage and others in football kits, playing football at K. Gamnomphai Village Ground in Kangpokpi District, with assault rifles slung over their shoulders. The act was deemed a clear violation of the Arms Act, 1959, prompting swift police action.
Arrests and Legal Action
The arrested individuals have been identified as:
Mangtinlen Kipgen @ Baemang (26)
Mangtinlen Kipgen (24)
Seithenmang Kipgen (28)
Lunminsei Kipgen (21)
Lunkhogin Kipgen (24)
Police have registered relevant cases against them and launched further investigations into the origins of the weapons and possible militant links. Authorities are also probing whether more individuals were involved in the illegal display of firearms in public.
The arrests come amid growing concerns over the unchecked presence of armed groups in the state. Organizations such as the Delhi Meetei Coordinating Committee (DMCC) and the Meitei Heritage Society have been urging the administration to take stricter action against the public display of weapons and the impunity of armed groups operating in conflict zones.
With Manipur under President’s Rule, the central government has tightened security measures, deploying additional forces to curb lawlessness. The Home Ministry has reiterated its commitment to disarming unlawful groups, restoring normalcy, and ensuring the safety of civilians.
Meanwhile, the situation remains tense, with authorities keeping a close watch on potential flashpoints as investigations continue into the larger security implications of armed groups operating openly in Manipur.
