Police in the northeastern state of Manipur have recovered a significant cache of arms and ammunition during a search operation in the restive Churachandpur district and surrounding areas.

In a post on X, the Manipur police said: “Search operations and area domination were conducted by security forces in the fringe and vulnerable areas of hill and valley districts. During the search operations, 1 locally made improvised mortar (pumpi) with stand, 3 locally made improvised mortar (pumpi), and 8 pumpi ammunition were seized by Manipur Police from Khousabung and its adjoining area, Churachandpur District.”

Manipur has been embroiled in violence since May 2023, as tensions between the majority Meitei and minority Kuki communities have escalated, fueled by disputes over economic benefits and reservations.

To maintain peace and security, the police have set up 113 checkpoints across various districts in both hill and valley areas.

In a separate search operation, security forces recovered a large quantity of arms and explosives in Senam village, located in Tengnoupal district.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Biren Singh announced that two young men abducted from Kangpokpi on September 27 have been released.

“The two young men abducted in Kangpokpi on 27th September, 2024, have been safely brought back to the custody of Manipur Police. I sincerely appreciate everyone from both the state and central government who worked tirelessly to ensure their safe return. Your efforts are deeply valued,” Singh said.

(With inputs from agencies )