manipur-61-bunkers-multiple-checkpoints-razed-in-36-hour-op

Security forces have dismantled 61 illegal bunkers and removed several unauthorised checkpoints across Manipur during a massive 36-hour operation involving nearly 6,000 personnel, according to the state police's morning bulletin issued on Thursday.

 

The coordinated crackdown covered both hill and valley districts and included search, combing and area-domination operations in multiple sensitive locations across the state.

 

A major focus of the exercise was the Leimakhong area in Kangpokpi district, including Leilon Vaiphei, Leilon Khunou, L. Munlui and Konsakhul villages. Security personnel destroyed 30 bunkers, outposts and strategically located camps that were allegedly being used by anti-social elements.

 

The operation also led to the recovery of a cache of arms, ammunition and protective equipment. Seized items included 11 single-barrel breech-loading (SBBL) 12-bore guns, 294 live rounds of ammunition, 34 spent cartridges, two packets of gunpowder and six bulletproof jackets.

 

Officials said four individuals were detained during the operation and are currently undergoing verification.

 

The latest action follows similar drives carried out in other parts of the state earlier this week. On June 17, security forces destroyed four illegal bunkers in the Saikul subdivision of Kangpokpi district, including two each in Thingphai and C. Kholen villages.

Also read: Security forces seize arms in Manipur search ops, destroy bunkers

In neighbouring Churachandpur district, personnel demolished a bunker and removed an unauthorised checkpoint in the S. Nabil and Loilamkoi areas.

 

Authorities said the operations form part of a wider effort to restore normalcy and strengthen law and order in Manipur by removing fortified structures and illegal checkpoints established in conflict-prone areas.

 

The crackdown comes days after security forces destroyed 26 illegal bunkers in Ukhrul district on June 16. Officials had said those structures were erected by anti-social elements linked to rival Naga and Kuki groups amid continuing tensions in the district.

 

Security agencies indicated that similar operations would continue in vulnerable areas across the state to curb armed activities, prevent the re-establishment of illegal fortifications and ensure public safety.