Manipur Police arrest two senior insurgents in Imphal West triple shooting case

Imphal: Manipur Police on Saturday arrested two senior insurgents in connection with a triple shooting that occurred at multiple locations in Imphal West district on Friday night, officials said on Sunday.

One M-20 pistol with a live round, which was used in the firing incidents, was recovered and seized. Other seized items included a car, three two-wheelers and a mobile phone.

Police said the arrests followed an investigation and analysis of CCTV footage from the crime scenes, which helped establish the identities of two active cadres of an underground group. The arrestees were identified as members of the proscribed Kangleipak Communist Party (Noyon) and were found to be involved in the commission of the crimes. Manipur Police said they were arrested from different hideouts.

(i) Khaidem Ranjit (65), a resident of Sagolband Moirang Hanuba in Imphal West district, was arrested from his residence after a detailed search based on leads obtained from CCTV footage; and
(ii) Sanasam Biramangol (63), a resident of Phumlou and presently residing at Tera Loukrakpam in Imphal West district, was arrested from Phumlou in the same district.

Police accused the duo of involvement in at least eight firing incidents, including an earlier attack at the residence of Dr Loken at Uripok in Imphal West district.

Police also said a third suspect involved in the incident managed to flee and remains at large. They have sought public assistance to trace the absconding accused.

Following the triple firing at Langjing Achouba, Ghari and Sangaiprou in Imphal West district on January 9, 2026, Manipur Police launched extensive search operations at suspected locations. Further investigation is underway.