Security forces in Manipur have recovered a large cache of arms, ammunition, and explosives during coordinated operations across multiple districts, police said on Saturday.

According to an official statement, at least 29 firearms, ammunition, and around 50 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were seized during search operations conducted on Friday in both hill and valley regions of the state.

In Kakching district, six firearms—including an AK-56 rifle—along with three grenades and ammunition were recovered from the Wabagai Turel Mamei area.

In Tengnoupal district, security personnel seized 29 IEDs, five locally made hand grenades, five electric detonators, and other explosive materials from areas near Loisi and Saivom villages. Additionally, nine IEDs, along with a pistol and ammunition, were recovered from the SL Zougam area under Machi police station limits.

Operations in Imphal West district led to the recovery of 11 pistols, 85 live rounds of ammunition, four camouflage bulletproof vests, and three firearms from the Lamdeng and Kameng areas.

Further recoveries in Tengnoupal included 12 IEDs, four radio sets, three pistols, and a grenade launcher from Yangoubung village near the India–Myanmar border.

Meanwhile, in Thoubal district, five firearms along with ammunition were seized from the foothills of Tekcham Sanji Ching.

Police said all recovered IEDs were safely neutralised and destroyed on site following standard safety protocols.

Ongoing operations amid ethnic violence

Security forces have been carrying out sustained search operations across Manipur since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023 between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups. The clashes have so far claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands of people.

Officials said such operations are aimed at preventing further escalation by removing illegal arms and explosives from vulnerable areas.

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