Imphal: In a significant step toward restoring peace and normalcy in Manipur, at least 16 weapons and a cache of ammunition were voluntarily surrendered to security forces in the Churachandpur district.
The surrender follows an appeal made by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, urging the youth from both the Hills and the Valley to turn in illegal arms and ammunition at the nearest police stations or security camps within seven days. The Governor had also warned that failure to comply would result in strict action against those in possession of illegal weapons.
Responding to this appeal, Assam Rifles, in coordination with the Police, CRPF, State Intelligence Agencies, and State Administration, engaged with local leaders from the Zomi and Kuki communities. They addressed security concerns, assured safety, and highlighted the benefits of de-weaponization in the region.
This outreach proved successful, as community leaders agreed to surrender a significant cache of arms and ammunition, marking a crucial step in the peace process—a key priority of the Central Government.
Following discussions with security forces and the State Administration, Zomi and Kuki leaders mobilized local support and, on February 22, 2025, handed over the first batch of surrendered weapons at Tuibong Village, Churachandpur District.
The surrendered arsenal included:
- Firearms: One M-16 rifle, one 7.62 mm SLR, two AK rifles, three INSAS rifles, two M-79 40mm Under Barrel Grenade Launchers (UBGL), one 9mm carbine machine gun, one 51mm mortar, three .303 rifles, and two single-barrel rifles.
- Ammunition & Explosives: 64 gelatin sticks, 10 rounds of 60mm Pumpi (improvised mortar) ammunition, 17 rounds of AK ammunition, 40 rounds of 5.56mm rifle ammunition, and three 9mm caliber rounds.
Senior officials from Assam Rifles, CRPF, State Civil Administration, Police, and State Intelligence Agencies of Churachandpur District were present during the handover.
A press note from the PRO, IGAR(S), stated that the meticulously coordinated efforts of Assam Rifles, Police, State Civil Administration, CRPF, and State Intelligence Agencies are expected to encourage more groups to come forward. This initiative is seen as a vital step toward fostering long-term peace and development in the region.
