12 bunkers destroyed in Manipur in last 24 hrs

Digital Desk: The police and central security forces destroyed up to 12 bunkers allegedly constructed by militants across various districts of Manipur in the last 24 hours, reports stated. 

According to a statement from the Manipur police, the state police and central forces carried out a search operation in the districts of Tamenglong, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and Kakching and destroyed 12 bunkers in both the Hill and the Valley.

"During the search three 51 mm mortar shells, and three 84 mm mortar shells were found in the paddy field of Sahumphai village and one IED was found in a paddy field between Kangvai and S. Kotlian villages. The mortar shells and IED were demolished at the spot by the State Bomb Disposal Team," said the statement.

The Manipur police reported that while there have been isolated occurrences and some difficult situations but normal in most districts of the state.

According to the statement, they have detained 135 people in connection with crimes of arson, theft in abandoned houses, and violating curfews.

"A total of 1100 arms, 13702 ammunitions and 250 bombs of different kinds have been recovered so far. Flag marches, area domination, cordon and search operations are continuing in various parts of the state," the statement added.

The police have appealed to the public to provide all assistance they can in restoring normalcy to the state, to dispel any rumours by calling the Central Control room at 9233522822, and to return and promptly hand over any weapons, ammunition, or explosives to the police or security personnel.

On May 3, violence occurred during a rally called by the All Tribals Students Union (ATSU) to protest against the demand that Meiteis be added to the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs), sparking fights that left many people injured.

In susceptible regions of the state, Manipur police, and central forces have conducted patrolling, flag marches, cordoning operations, and search operations.