Imphal: In a display of caution and respect for human life, security forces conducted a search operation in Manipur and successfully apprehended 12 members of the banned extremist group Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL). However, the operation had to be interrupted owing to the intervention of a huge crowd of roughly 1200 people, primarily headed by women and local leaders. Despite repeated pleas, the mob encircled the location, preventing security officers from advancing.
The search operation, based on specific intelligence, took place in the village of Itham, located 6 kilometres east of Andro in Imphal East district, on the morning of June 24. The forces seized a significant amount of arms, ammunition, and war-like stores during the operation. To ensure minimal disruption to the local community, the area was cordoned off before the search began.
In a press release, the Defence Public Relations Officer (PRO) highlighted that the decision to release the 12 KYKL cadres was made by the officer on the ground, taking into account the sensitive situation and the potential harm that could be caused to both the security forces and the mob. The army personnel, with the recovered weapons and war-like stores, lifted the cordon and departed from the area.
Among the apprehended cadres, self-styled Lt Col Moirangthem Tamba, also known as Uttam, was positively identified. He was recognised as the mastermind behind an ambush on the 6th battalion of the DOGRA case in 2015.
The official release emphasized that the decision made by the operational commander reflects the humane approach of the Indian Army, aiming to prevent collateral damage and avoid escalating the situation during the ongoing unrest in Manipur. The Indian Army also called upon the people of Manipur to support the security forces in maintaining law and order for the sake of peace and stability in the region.
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