Security forces in Manipur carried out a series of coordinated counter-insurgency operations between January 3 and 4, 2026, leading to the recovery of a substantial quantity of arms, explosives and military-grade equipment, along with the arrest of several active militant operatives across different districts of the state.

On January 4, security personnel conducted a search operation at Yairipok Top Ningthounai Lai Ching under Andro Police Station in Imphal East district. During the operation, forces recovered multiple firearms, including a self-loading rifle (SLR), a single-barrel gun and several pistols of different calibres along with magazines. Explosive materials seized from the site included improvised explosive devices (IEDs), hand grenades of various types and live ammunition. Authorities also found logistical supplies such as camping gear, indicating possible plans for prolonged movement or hideouts.

A day earlier, on January 3, another major recovery was made at Lanchingmanbi in Chingphei village under Henglep Police Station in Churachandpur district. Security forces seized a rocket loaded with a large quantity of explosives, a sniper rifle fitted with a telescopic scope, country-made weapons, ammunition and an IED. Officials said the nature of the recovered items pointed to preparations for high-impact attacks.

In a separate operation on the same day at Kangaching Tellou under Lamlai Police Station in Imphal East, forces recovered additional pistols, grenades, a high-explosive mortar shell, large quantities of ammunition, communication equipment, body protection gear and other tactical accessories.

Alongside the seizures, security forces also arrested several suspected militants. On January 4, Laishram Kullabi Meitei alias Ronel, linked to the RPF/PLA outfit, was apprehended from Imphal West, with mobile phones recovered from his possession. Tensubam Bangkim Singh, also known as Chak-thekpa or Mangang Punshiba, associated with the KCP (Taibanganba) group, was arrested from Bishnupur district with a pistol, live rounds and a mobile phone. Another RPF/PLA cadre, Mahesh Sarangthem, was taken into custody from his residence in Thoubal district.

Officials said the operations form part of sustained efforts to curb insurgent activities in Manipur, dismantle militant networks and prevent acts of violence. Security agencies have intensified surveillance and search operations across sensitive areas to ensure public safety and stability in the region.