Imphal: Extortion targeting trucks transporting essential commodities along National Highway-37 continues despite heightened security measures, with fresh reports suggesting armed groups are openly collecting money from drivers even in the presence of security escorts.
The latest incident came to light after a video circulated on social media allegedly showing an armed man in combat gear stopping goods-laden trucks and demanding payments ranging from Rs 3,000 to Rs 10,000. The incident reportedly occurred on the Imphal-Silchar stretch of NH-37 while a convoy of nearly 150 security vehicles was escorting civilian traffic.
The development has raised fresh concerns over highway security, coming days after the Director General of Police, on July 7, directed district police authorities to crack down on illegal extortion along key transport routes.
The latest case adds to a series of similar incidents reported in recent months. In April, the Kuki Revolutionary Army (KRA) was allegedly found issuing printed receipts after collecting Rs 3,000 from truck drivers. In another case reported in May, extortion money was allegedly transferred digitally through Google Pay to an individual identified as Khaiminsei Haokip.
Sources also alleged that some drivers are being asked to pay money at certain police check gates after officials record their vehicle registration numbers and mobile phone details. These allegations, however, have not been independently verified.
According to sources, extortion activities continue to be reported from several locations, including Noney, Nungba, Kaimai, Nungkao, Oinamlong and Kaiphundai.
Transporters and local sources have urged authorities to strengthen security along the highway by reintroducing mobile patrol teams, increasing convoy protection and deploying Road Opening Parties (ROPs) to ensure the safe movement of vehicles carrying essential supplies.