nia-arrests-key-suspect-in-manipur-violence-plot

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Thursday apprehended Thongminthang Haokip, alias Thangboi Haokip, alias Roger, at Imphal airport.

 

Haokip, a member of the Kuki National Front-Military Council (KNF-MC), is a central figure in a transnational conspiracy aiming to exacerbate violence in Manipur and spread terror in the northeastern state.

 

The arrest comes as part of an ongoing investigation into insurgent and terrorist activities in the region.

 

The NIA, in a statement, revealed that Haokip has been charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

 

The case was registered suo motu by the NIA on July 19 of the previous year.

 

According to the agency, the conspiracy involved Kuki and Zomi insurgents, supported by terrorist organizations based in the northeastern states and neighboring Myanmar. 

 

The aim was to exploit the ethnic unrest in Manipur and wage war against the Indian government through violent attacks.

 

Haokip has been implicated in multiple attacks on security forces during the ongoing insurgency.

 

The NIA's investigations indicated that he was in contact with the Kuki National Front-Burma (KNF-B) of Myanmar to obtain logistical support to intensify the volatile situation in Manipur and instill terror among the populace.

 

The NIA disclosed that Haokip had met with leaders of the PDF/KNF-B (Myanmar) to arrange for the supply of arms, ammunition, and explosives intended for use in the current phase of violence in Manipur.

 

He admitted to participating in several armed attacks against security forces and rival groups during the ongoing crisis.

 

Furthermore, Haokip acknowledged his affiliation with the Kuki National Front-Military Council and the United Tribal Volunteers (UTV).

 

The NIA is continuing its investigations to identify and track other individuals involved in the conspiracy, aiming to thwart the terrorist outfits' plans to destabilize the northeastern region.

 

The violence in Manipur, which began on May 3 of the previous year, has claimed at least 219 lives.

 

The unrest erupted following a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ organised in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status. 

 

The ethnic strife has since caused significant loss of life and property, with the government and security forces striving to restore peace and stability.

 

The NIA's efforts to dismantle the transnational conspiracy underline the ongoing challenges in addressing insurgent activities in the northeastern states.

 

The agency's focus on preventing the escalation of violence and ensuring the security of the region remains a top priority.