Six PLA cadres arrested across Manipur valley districts since start of 2026

Imphal: Security forces in Manipur captured a cadre of the proscribed People’s Liberation Army, the armed wing of the banned Revolutionary People’s Front (PLA/RPF), during an anti-insurgency operation on January 11, 2026.

According to police reports, with the arrest of this outlawed activist, a total of six PLA/RPF members have been apprehended since the beginning of this year.

The arrests were made at different locations across the Manipur valley districts.

The RPF/PLA activist, named Thiyam Yaiphaba Meitei, also known as Pibarel (28), a resident of Ningomthong Bazar, Imphal West, was arrested from Yaripok Yambem Makha Leikai under Andro Police Station, Imphal East district, on Sunday.

The other cadres, Wahengbam Bimal Meitei, Chandam Rabichandra (30), Mahesh Sarangthem (19), Laishram Kullabi Meitei (35), and Laishram Jiban Singh (45), were also apprehended from their hideouts in different valley districts during this period.

Six mobile phones, Aadhaar cards, and a white Maruti Alto were recovered from their possession, along with demand letters.

Notably, the PLA in Manipur was established on September 25, 1978, by N. Bisheshwar Singh.

Inspired by China’s PLA, the group aimed to create an independent socialist Manipur, with its early members receiving training in China.