2 militants ‘involved’ in Imphal West’s firing incidents arrested

Imphal: In a major breakthrough, Manipur Police have arrested two senior cadres of the proscribed Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP)-Noyon for their alleged involvement in a string of armed attacks across Imphal West district.The arrests on Saturday followed a spate of firing incidents reported the previous evening at Langjing Achouba, Ghari, and Sangaiprou, which had triggered widespread concern among residents.Acting swiftly, police launched intensive search operations at suspected hideouts and analysed CCTV footage from the crime scenes, leading to the identification of the accused.The arrested persons were identified as Khaidem Ranjit (65) of Sagolband Moirang Hanuba, Imphal West district, who was apprehended from his residence after a rigorous search based on CCTV leads, and Sanasam Biramangol (63) of Phumlou, presently residing at Tera Loukrakpam, Imphal West district, who was arrested from Phumlou.During the operation, police recovered and seized an M-20 pistol loaded with a live round, which was allegedly used in the firing incidents. In addition, three two-wheeler vehicles and one mobile phone were also seized from their possession.According to the police, the duo is involved in no less than eight firing incidents, including an earlier attack at the residence of Loken at Uripok in Imphal West.Further investigation is currently underway to ascertain the full extent of their activities and possible links with other operatives.