Manipur – Security Forces Seize Weapons, Destroy Poppy Fields
Manipur – Security forces have intensified operations across Manipur, leading to the seizure of a significant cache of weapons and the destruction of illegal poppy cultivation spread over dozens of acres, officials confirmed on Sunday. The coordinated actions were carried out on February 7 and 8 in multiple districts as part of continued efforts to strengthen security and curb unlawful activities in vulnerable areas.
Weapons and Ammunition Recovered in Noney District
According to a statement issued by the Manipur Police Control Room, personnel conducted search operations in the Lenglong and Taikhang areas under Nungba Police Station in Noney district on February 7. During the operation, security teams recovered an AK-47 rifle with a magazine, a US-made M2 Carbine, and a .22 pistol.
In addition to firearms, officers seized a drone, several rounds of ammunition of different calibres, two handheld radio sets, and other related equipment. Officials said the recovery was part of ongoing area domination exercises aimed at preventing the movement and storage of illegal arms in remote pockets.
Police noted that the overall law-and-order situation in the state remained stable over the past 24 hours, even as security forces continued combing operations in fringe and sensitive zones.
Explosives and IEDs Found in Tengnoupal
On February 8, another operation was carried out in Molnom-Molnoi village and nearby areas under Tengnoupal Police Station in Tengnoupal district. Security personnel recovered an AK rifle, a pistol, two improvised mortars, and a single-barrel rifle.
More concerning was the discovery of two live improvised mortar bombs and 14 improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Officials confirmed that the explosives were safely neutralised at the site to prevent any threat to local residents. Additional ammunition, including 7.62 mm rounds and wire bundles believed to be linked to explosive devices, was also seized.
Authorities described the operation as a preventive measure aimed at disrupting potential threats and maintaining public safety in the district.
Illegal Poppy Cultivation Destroyed in Kangpokpi
Security forces also launched a large-scale anti-drug drive on February 8 in the Awlmun, Songlung and Lhangjol areas under Kangchup Police Station in Kangpokpi district. During the exercise, approximately 27 acres of illicit poppy cultivation were cleared and destroyed.
Five temporary huts erected at the plantation sites were dismantled. Officials reported the seizure of several sacks of salt and fertiliser believed to be used for crop processing and cultivation. A two-wheeler motorcycle was also recovered from the site.
The destruction of poppy fields forms part of a broader campaign to combat narcotics production and trafficking in the state, which has remained a priority for law enforcement agencies.
Traffic Enforcement and Public Advisory
Alongside security operations, Manipur Police continued its drive against motor vehicle violations. Between January 2 and February 8, authorities issued 173 challans, collecting fines amounting to Rs. 2.67 lakh. In a separate initiative conducted from February 1 to 7, tinted films were removed from 10 vehicles as part of road safety enforcement.
Police also established 114 checkpoints across hill and valley districts to monitor movement and enhance vigilance. Officials confirmed that no individuals were detained at these checkpoints during the reporting period.
In its advisory, the police urged residents not to rely on unverified information circulating on social media. Authorities cautioned that misleading posts and fabricated videos could create unnecessary panic. The department also appealed to the public to voluntarily return any looted arms, ammunition, or explosives to the nearest police station or security unit.
Officials reiterated that coordinated search operations and preventive measures will continue across Manipur to ensure stability and uphold law and order.