Imphal: Security forces unearthed two hideouts belonging to warring underground groups in the border area of Kangpokpi and Imphal East districts in Manipur on Friday, recovering a cache of arms and ammunition.
The operation was launched based on intelligence suggesting an imminent clash between the two groups, which have been involved in sporadic violence since the eruption of ethnic strife in Manipur last May.
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Kangpokpi district is predominantly inhabited by the Kuki-Zo community, while Imphal East is home to the Meitei population.
In a joint operation, Assam Rifles and Manipur Police conducted a two-hour search of Loiching Ridge in Kangpokpi district, seizing one improvised 7.62mm SLR Mk 1, one improvised 9mm CMG, one 9mm pistol, one 12-bore single barrel rifle, one long-range improvised mortar, one short-range improvised mortar, along with ammunition and other warlike stores.
A separate operation in the Changsang mid hills of Imphal East district yielded a .32 pistol, nine Pompi (a type of improvised explosive device), one country-made 12-bore rifle, one single-bore rifle, one catapult gun, ammunition, explosives, and other combat equipment.
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The recovered items have been handed over to Manipur Police for further investigation.