Imphal: Joint security forces conducted an extensive search operation in Manipur’s Senapati district on August 25, following days of ethnic tension and violence between Naga and Kuki communities.
The operation covered Taphou Kuki and Taphou Liangmai Naga villages, where security personnel carried out house-to-house searches after incidents of arson and a gunfight the previous day left a CRPF personnel injured.
According to police, the searches were conducted without resistance from local residents. No arrests or detentions were reported during the operation.
Three illegal bunkers were also dismantled during the security sweep. Two of the structures were located in Taphou Kuki, while the third was found at Taphou Liangmai.
The joint team, comprising personnel from Manipur Police, the CRPF’s CoBRA unit and female security personnel, recovered two single-barrel breech-loading (SBBL) guns, 78 live 12-bore cartridges and several empty cartridge cases, including those from AK-47 and .22 calibre ammunition.
Other items seized included a cartridge belt, a charger set, five vehicle registration plates and a military-surplus ammunition container.
The operation came a day after violence erupted in the area on August 24, when houses belonging to members of both the Kuki and Naga communities were reportedly set ablaze. An exchange of gunfire during the clashes also left a CRPF personnel injured in the foot or leg.
Security forces have maintained a heavy presence in the area to prevent further violence. The seized weapons, ammunition and other materials have been handed over to local authorities for detailed forensic and ballistic examination.