In a major anti-insurgency operation, a cadre of the proscribed Kanglei Yaol Kanna Lup (KYKL) was arrested, and 27 country-made bombs were recovered and neutralised in Imphal East district on January 1, marking a significant success for joint security forces in 2026.
The operation was carried out jointly by the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and Manipur Police, based on intelligence from multiple sources. The arrested militant, identified as Tekcham Mani Meitei, alias Jacob (51), a resident of Wangjing Wangkhei in Thoubal district, was apprehended at his hideout in Wangkhei Ningthem Pukhri Mapal, Lane No. 5.
Authorities recovered a mobile handset, an HP keyboard, and an Aadhaar card from his possession. Following preliminary questioning, the security forces launched a second phase of the operation in Monglham village under Thoubal Dam Police Station, leading to the recovery of 27 locally made explosive devices. The bombs were safely neutralised at a secluded location.
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The arrested KYKL cadre has been handed over to the local police for further legal proceedings. The KYKL, a banned outfit in India, has long demanded the restoration of Manipur’s sovereignty and has been involved in multiple insurgency-related activities over the years.
Security forces in Manipur have been conducting continuous counter-insurgency operations since ethnic violence escalated in 2023. The state has seen clashes between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, leaving over 260 people dead and thousands displaced. The Centre had imposed President’s rule after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned, and the state assembly was placed under suspended animation.
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