Imphal: Security forces conducted multiple operations and busted a fund-raising wing of underground groups, arresting eight men, including a 63-year-old, involved in extortion networks in two valley districts on Sunday, officials reported Monday.
The arrestees were accused of recruiting cadres into underground groups and extorting oil pumps, showrooms, hotels, educational institutes, government officials, and pharmacies.
Reports stated that in a series of operations, security forces arrested six extortionists associated with the proscribed People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak – Progressive (PREPAK-PRO) from different locations under Nongpok Sekmai Police Station in Imphal East district.
The arrested cadres include Self-styled (s/s) Captain Moirangthem Boboy Singh, also called Lalngam (54), of Yairipok Kakmayai Mayai Leikai; s/s Lieutenant Thoudam Tomba Singh, also known as Thengainaba (63), of Soibam Leikai Khalabung Leirak; Konsam Romenkumar Singh/Samitpa (44), of Iroisemba Mayai Leikai; Laishram Nanao Singh/Lukhoi (35), of Itam Nungoi; Takhellambam Kishan Singh/Nanao (30), and Takhellambam Washington Singh/Ibungo (22), both of Chanam Santrok Maning Leikai.
From their possession, the security forces recovered i) one DBBL gun, ii) two mobile phones, and iii) two SIM cards.
In another operation, security forces apprehended two extortionists belonging to the banned PREPAK-PRO group of five.
They were caught at Yairipok Pechi under Yairipok Police Station, Thoubal district.
The arrested individuals are Lantham Poireiton Meitei/Lanthouba (25), of Chanam Santrok Awang Leikai, and Chirom Rostam Singh/Chiromba (25), of Kongba Laikhuram Leirak, Imphal East district.