Crackdown on Bunkers: Manipur's Security Sweep

Security forces in Manipur have intensively dismantled 23 illegal bunkers and seized 18 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) located in the Ukhrul and Tengnoupal districts, according to a police statement released Saturday.

The operations were conducted separately, with bunkers destroyed in hill villages including Mongkot Chepu, Shongphel, Mullam, Sirarakhong, and Ringue under the Litan police station. Security personnel also confiscated a 12-bore pump-action gun, 17 cartridges of various calibers, and 111 empty bullet cases.

This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to quell inter-community violence that resulted in the deaths of seven individuals and the burning of over 30 houses since clashes erupted between the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities earlier this year. Parallel operations in T Bongmol village in Tengnoupal saw the seizure of additional arms and explosives.

(With inputs from agencies.)