Imphal: Manipur Police and state social welfare officials rescued a minor girl and arrested three people during an early-morning operation in Imphal East district on Thursday. A fourth suspect escaped and remains at large.
The operation was conducted in Keibi village after officials received intelligence late Wednesday night that several minor girls were allegedly being prepared for trafficking outside the state.
Manipur Social Welfare Director Sheikh Abdul Hakim said at a media briefing on Thursday afternoon that he personally took part in the operation. He said officials received information about the alleged trafficking plan at around 11:00 PM on Wednesday.
Given the urgency, officials sought immediate approval from the state leadership. “Acting on tips from various sources, the operation was rapidly organized and concluded with the direct approval of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and top police officials,” Hakim stated.
Following the Chief Minister’s approval, a joint team was formed with assistance from the Imphal East District Police and the Imphal East District Women Police team.
During the raid at Keibi village, the team rescued the minor girl and arrested three suspected traffickers.
Authorities have launched a search for the fourth suspect who escaped during the operation.
The identities of the rescued minor and the arrested individuals have not been disclosed to protect the victim’s privacy and the ongoing investigation.
Police said further questioning is underway to determine the extent of the alleged trafficking network and identify possible links to wider interstate networks.