Massive Triumph: Manipur Arms Recovery Operation Secures Peace in Valley Districts

In a resounding success for law enforcement and stability, joint security forces in Manipur have executed a significant operation, leading to the recovery of a substantial cache of illegal arms and ammunition. This decisive Manipur arms recovery highlights the unwavering commitment of authorities to quell unrest and foster lasting peace in the region, particularly within the sensitive valley districts. The crackdown, a meticulously planned intelligence-led initiative, saw the seizure of 86 weapons and 974 rounds of assorted ammunition, preventing potential threats and reinforcing the state’s resolve against armed elements.

The Intelligence-Driven Manipur Arms Recovery

The operation, undertaken by joint teams comprising Manipur Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and the Indian Army/Assam Rifles, unfolded in the early hours of Tuesday, July 15, 2025. Acting on precise intelligence inputs regarding the concealment of illicit weaponry, coordinated raids were launched simultaneously across multiple locations. The targeted districts—Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur—are key areas in the state’s central valley, underscoring the strategic nature of this Manipur arms recovery. IGP (Intelligence) K. Kabib affirmed that these operations represent a major breakthrough in the ongoing mission to restore normalcy and uphold public order across Manipur.

An Overview of the Recovered Arsenal

The sheer volume and variety of arms confiscated during this extensive Manipur arms recovery operation paint a stark picture of the illegal weaponry circulating within the state. The 86 recovered firearms included a dangerous assortment of sophisticated and conventional weapons:

• Assault Rifles: This critical Manipur arms recovery included 5 AK-series rifles and 3 INSAS rifles, weapons commonly associated with insurgent and militant groups, posing significant threats to security forces and civilians alike.
• Self-Loading Rifles (SLRs) and .303 Rifles: A total of 16 SLRs and 5 .303 rifles were also seized, indicating a wide range of military-grade firearms in illegal possession.
• Pistols and Carbines: 19 pistols and 2 carbines were found, frequently used for closer-range engagements and often by criminal elements.
• Other Firearms: The haul also encompassed 9 other types of rifles, 16 single-barrel breech-loading (SBBL) or bore action guns, 2 anti-riot guns, 1 Joint Venture Protective Carbine (JVPC), 1 double-barrel breech-loading (DBBL) gun, and 6 bolt-action guns, showcasing the diverse weaponry that security forces are working to remove from circulation.
• Heavy Ordnance: Of particular concern was the recovery of a 2-inch mortar, a powerful weapon capable of significant destruction.

Beyond the firearms, the Manipur arms recovery yielded 974 rounds of live ammunition of various calibers, including 7.62 mm, 5.56 mm, .303, 9 mm, and .32 mm. Additionally, security forces unearthed 9 grenades, 6 high-explosive (HE) mortar shells, 2 tube launching shells, and 4 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), highlighting the presence of dangerous explosive materials. The operations also led to the seizure of 41 assorted magazines and 6 wireless handsets, vital components for sustained armed activity and communication among illicit groups.

Context and Commitment: The Larger Picture of Manipur Arms Recovery

This latest Manipur arms recovery is not an isolated incident but rather part of a broader, sustained effort by the state’s security apparatus to disarm the region and bring stability. Manipur has grappled with ethnic violence and unrest since May 2023, which has unfortunately led to numerous casualties and widespread displacement, with thousands forced to seek refuge in relief camps. The central government’s imposition of President’s Rule underscores the gravity of the situation and the concerted drive to restore governmental authority and public trust.

Authorities have consistently urged the public to cooperate in this crucial endeavor, emphasizing the importance of reporting any suspicious activities or information related to illegal arms to the nearest police station or the Central Control Room. The police leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining close coordination with all security stakeholders, including various central forces, to ensure that such intelligence-led operations continue in a sustained and focused manner. The ultimate goal remains clear: to restore normalcy, maintain public order, and safeguard the lives and property of all citizens. This decisive Manipur arms recovery serves as a strong message that the state will not tolerate the proliferation of illegal weapons and will relentlessly pursue those who seek to undermine peace.

Previous efforts have also seen significant results. On July 3 and 4, security forces recovered over 200 weapons in a similar large-scale search operation across the state’s hill districts. Another operation on June 14 yielded 328 weapons and approximately 10,600 rounds of ammunition. These consistent and effective operations demonstrate the proactive approach being taken to address the root causes of armed conflict and restore a sense of security and normalcy for the people of Manipur. Each successful Manipur arms recovery contributes to building a safer environment for communities to thrive.

The sustained focus on intelligence gathering, targeted enforcement, and community cooperation remains central to the strategy. By dismantling illegal arms networks and reinforcing law and order, security forces are paving the way for a more peaceful and secure future for Manipur. The recovery of these weapons is a significant deterrent to armed groups and a morale booster for the affected populace, signaling that efforts to reclaim peace are yielding tangible results.