In a sweeping crackdown on illegal arms, Manipur witnessed a dual surge of action this week as joint security forces recovered a significant cache of weapons in coordinated raids. At the same time, civilians flocked to surrender 196 firearms hours before the expiry of a state-mandated deadline. The operations, spanning nine districts, underscore the government’s intensified push to quell violence in the ethnically fractured state under the President’s Rule.
Large-Scale Security Operations: Following the expiration of the Governor’s deadline at 4 PM on Thursday, joint teams of police, paramilitary, and army personnel launched search and destroy missions targeting weapons hoarders and illegal bunkers. By Friday, security forces had Recovered 36 firearms, including high-calibre rifles like the 7.62 mm SLR and INSAS (standard Indian Army issue), alongside 129 ammunition rounds, seven explosives, and 21 tactical items such as bulletproof gear and communication devices.
Destroyed 12 bunkers: Security forces dismantled 12 bunkers used by armed groups, many strategically placed in conflict-prone hills and villages. Conducted precision raids in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, and Kangpokpi, with notable seizures:
- Moidangpok (Imphal West):p A .32 pistol, five-barrel guns, grenades (HE 36), and tear gas shells.
- Langmeithek Yerum Ching (Thoubal): An INSAS rifle, SMG carbine, revolvers, bulletproof vests, and wireless sets—indicative of organized armed groups.
- Sawombung-Paorabi (Imphal East): An Amogh carbine, SLR rifle, and 19 rounds of specialized 5.56x30mm ammunition.
Last-Minute Surge in Civilian Surrenders: As the deadline loomed, civilians handed over 196 firearms, ammunition, and miscellaneous items across eight districts, with a notable spike on March 6. Key details:
- The bulk of surrendered arms included shotguns, pistols, and improvised rifles—many looted during ethnic clashes since May 2023.
- Kangpokpi district, a hotspot in the Kuki-Meitei conflict, saw 15 illegal bunkers dismantled by forces.
- Authorities attributed the surge to heightened public messaging, warnings of strict action, and “confidence-building measures” by security teams.
The state has been under the president’s rule since February 2025 amid escalating violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zomi communities. Over 250 lives have been lost since May 2023, with thousands displaced.
Over 6,000 weapons were looted from police armories during the last two year’s clashes, flooding the state with illegal arms. Only ~2,000 have been recovered so far. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla extended the surrender deadline twice, urging compliance to avoid prosecution under the Arms Act and Explosives Act.
Combing Operations: Forces focus on hill districts like Churachandpur and Tamenglong, where armed groups dominate. Drones and intelligence inputs guide raids.
While the 196 surrendered arms mark progress, security experts stress that thousands remain in circulation. “Voluntary surrender is just one pillar. Sustained operations and community trust are critical,” said a senior police official.
Operations will continue until all illegal arms are neutralized. We appeal for cooperation to restore peace.” a senior police official said.
As Manipur’s disarmament drive enters a critical phase, the combined approach of coercive raids and voluntary surrender windows highlights the state’s precarious balance between security and reconciliation. With ethnic tensions still smouldering, the recovery of every weapon marks a small step toward stability—but the road ahead remains fraught with challenges.
