Churachandpur, Aug 8: Assam Rifles under Spear Corps apprehended a self-styled “Army Chief” of the United Kuki National Army (UKNA-Hmar) during an intelligence-based operation at Old Gelmoul in Manipur’s Churachandpur district, officials said.

The operation was carried out following specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of the insurgent leader in the area. Troops conducted a carefully planned operation and successfully apprehended the individual without allowing him to evade the security cordon.
Security forces also recovered two weapons, explosives and other war-like stores during the operation. The seizure is expected to significantly disrupt the outfit’s operational capabilities and logistics network in the area.
The apprehension assumes significance amid continuing security challenges in parts of Manipur, where armed groups and insurgent networks remain a concern. The recovery of explosives and weapons indicates the potential threat posed by such elements to security forces and civilians.
The operation also highlights the role of intelligence-led and coordinated security operations in identifying and neutralising insurgent networks. Assam Rifles has been maintaining sustained surveillance and conducting targeted operations in vulnerable areas of the region.
Further investigation is underway to ascertain the identity, organisational role and activities of the apprehended individual, as well as the source and intended use of the recovered weapons and explosives.
Security agencies are expected to continue operations against insurgent elements and their support networks to prevent the movement of arms, explosives and other war-like material in the region.
The latest action represents another significant operational success for Assam Rifles and a setback to the insurgent infrastructure operating in the area.