Manipur police arrest four in international arms trafficking network, seize Rs 57.77 lakh

Imphal: India's security forces have busted an alleged international arms trafficking network reportedly linked to Myanmar-based insurgent suppliers, arresting four key operatives and seizing Rs 57.77 lakh in cash.

The apprehended individuals are members of the Kuki-Zo community residing in the northern Kangpokpi and Senapati districts of Manipur.

According to a morning bulletin issued by Manipur police on Monday, the arrests and seizures were carried out during a special operation at the Phaikoh Outpost under the Chassad police station in Kamjong district, near the Myanmar border, on November 28, 2025.

The operation recovered 20 bundles of Indian Rs 500 denomination banknotes from the Mahatma Gandhi New Series, marking the largest cash seizure in Manipur so far.

Acting on a tip from across the Myanmar border that suspected insurgents might be involved in cross-border arms smuggling, security forces remained on high alert.

They were operating a military vehicle check post (MVCP) in the strategically vulnerable Kamjong district when the arrests took place.

The four arrested individuals are Nengneihoi Khongsai (24) of Seijang, Senapati district; Mangminthang Haokip (29) of C Asian village, Senapati district; Mangjoithang Haokip (27) of Seijang village, Senapati district; and Lempu Khongsai (39) of Nengboi Village, Kangpokpi district.

From their possession, authorities seized cash amounting to Rs 57,77,700 and one white four-wheeler.

Further investigations into the network and its activities are currently underway.