Manipur: Security forces step up anti-insurgency ops in Churachandpur

Imphal: Central security forces, with support from an Indian Army helicopter, launched large-scale anti-insurgency operations on Friday in interior areas of Manipur’s Churachandpur district, targeting suspected militant hideouts, officials said.

The helicopter was pressed into service for the first time this year to aid ground troops during the operation, marking a significant escalation in aerial support for counter-insurgency efforts in the region.

The operation followed the arrest of an active cadre of the proscribed Kangleipak Communist Party–People’s War Group (KCP-PWG). The arrested militant has been identified as Ningthoukhongjam Sushil Singh, also known as Kangla and Ishingchaoba (47), a resident of Langthabal Kunja Mamang Leikai under Singjamei police station in Imphal West district.

Based on inputs gathered during interrogation, combined teams of the Para Special Forces and Assam Rifles launched coordinated operations in the Henglep area of Churachandpur district, officials said. The area is known for the presence of the United Kuki National Army (UKNA), a militant group that is not a signatory to the Suspension of Operations agreement.

Churachandpur, a hill district in southern Manipur, shares a porous border with Myanmar and has long been considered vulnerable to cross-border militant movement.

According to officials, the operation focused on dense forested areas. Troops were deployed into difficult jungle terrain with the help of helicopters before advancing towards suspected camps.

“Helicopters were used to insert security personnel into remote locations, after which ground teams began combing operations,” an official said.

Officials said no further arrests or recoveries of arms, ammunition, or other incriminating materials have been reported so far. Combing operations are continuing in the area, with security forces maintaining a heightened alert to prevent militant movement or escape.