Imphal: Security forces arrested three cadres of two underground groups, the outlawed People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and the People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK), who are responsible for extortion campaigns in the Manipur valley districts, the police reported on Wednesday.
Thingnam Babudhon Meitei, also known as Thomba or Yohenba (45), associated with the banned PLA and a resident of Kakching Khunou Thingnam Bokul Leikai A/P Kakching Khunou Lamkhai, Kakching district, was arrested from his present residence under Waikhong Police Station, Kakching district, on Tuesday.
Based on his disclosure, security personnel arrested another PLA cadre, Nongmaithem Narendra Meitei, also known as Banner (50), of Kumbi Makha Leikai A/P Kwakeithel Mayaikoibi Mamang Leikai under Lamphel Police Station, Imphal West district, from his residence.
In a separate operation, the security forces arrested an active PREPAK (G-5) cadre, Sarangthem Anand Meitei (35) of Wakhong Makha Leikai under Sagolmang Police Station, from Keibi Heikak Mapan near the Community Hall under Sagolmang PS, Imphal East district.
From their possession, the authorities seized two mobile phones with two SIM cards and an Aadhaar card.
The arrests and seizures came shortly after a meeting at the Manipur Police Headquarters, Imphal, chaired by the Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order).
The police department has assured that security arrangements for Retail Outlets (ROs) will be reviewed. Additional measures, including vetting of all RO employees, will be implemented.
Mobile police teams will be deployed at strategic locations to ensure RO safety.
The report added that the anti-extortion mechanism will be strengthened to counter threats to petroleum product ROs.