New Delhi, August 25, 2026

A large stockpile of illegal weapons, ammunition and communication equipment has been recovered in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district, underscoring the security forces’ continued push to remove unauthorised arms and weaken illegal weapon networks in the state.

The recovery was made during a cordon-and-search operation at J Songtun village conducted over the past 24 hours. CRPF units, assisted by CoBRA and RAF commandos and Manipur Police, seized two country-made 12-bore guns and 14 other 12-bore guns carrying different manufacturers’ serial numbers and licence markings. The operation also led to the recovery of 1,225 rounds of 12-bore ammunition.

The seized material further included six VHF/wireless sets with three chargers, one Golden Antler telescope, 18 bulletproof vests and one pouch. The recovery is being viewed as part of the continuing de-weaponisation efforts aimed at locating and dismantling illegal arms networks operating across Manipur.

Tension briefly emerged as the security personnel were leaving the area when a group of villagers, predominantly women, blocked the road using stones. They demanded the return of the firearms and ammunition seized during the operation, which had not been verified as legitimate. Security forces used measured action to restore control and prevented the situation from escalating further.

Officials said the recovery is part of a broader and sustained campaign by the CRPF and allied forces to neutralise illegal weapon networks across Manipur. The Kangpokpi operation, they said, highlights the continued efforts of CRPF, CoBRA and RAF personnel to advance the de-weaponisation process in Manipur and support long-term stability in the region.