Imphal: Manipur Police and central security forces have arrested seven alleged cadres of the proscribed outfit PREPAK (Pro), including a woman, during coordinated operations at multiple locations in Imphal West.
According to police, teams from the Imphal West Commando unit carried out the operations on October 4 based on intelligence inputs. The arrested individuals were allegedly involved in an insurgent recruitment network and were suspected of having links to an IED attack at the residence of an MLA from Konthoujam constituency in August.
Police said the investigation into the August 28 blast led security agencies to track the logistical network allegedly connected to the attack. The arrested suspects were identified as Usham Rakesh Singh, alias Jenaresh/Thouba, 19, of Langol Ningthou Leikai; Yumnam Athoibi Chanu, 19, also from Langol Ningthou Leikai; RK Dayapati Devi, alias Pinky/Kichenbi, 19, of Tangkham Maning Leikai in Imphal East; Ahongshangbam Jet Meitei, alias Jack, 23, of Heinoup Maning Leirak; Naorem Lanthoiba Singh, alias Sana/Thoichanba, 19, originally from Nambol Maibam Chingmang and currently residing at Taobungkhok Awang Leikai; and Ayekpam Stephen Meitei, alias Alex/Yekchetpa, 19, of Takyel Khongbal Maning Leikai.
Police identified Yumnam Athoibi Chanu as an alleged key operative in the August 28 IED attack, while RK Dayapati Devi was also allegedly involved in the operation.
Alongside the six adults, security personnel also apprehended a juvenile classified as a Child in Conflict with the Law (CCL).
During the operations, the security forces seized a yellow Honda Activa 6G scooter bearing registration number MN01AJ 4957, which investigators suspect was used in connection with the alleged activities.
The operation also resulted in the rescue of a minor who was allegedly being kept by members of the outfit and groomed for recruitment into its underground network.
Police said the arrested persons, the juvenile and the seized scooter were subsequently handed over to Lamphel Police Station. Further investigation and questioning are underway as security agencies examine the alleged recruitment network and its links to the August IED attack.