NEW DELHI/IMPHAL, JUNE 20: In a major crackdown on those allegedly involved in the ethnic violence that rocked Manipur, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested 10 accused persons in six separate cases during coordinated raids across several districts of the troubled state.
The action comes at a time when the Centre is pushing for greater peace and stability in the Northeast, following recent efforts by neighbouring states to resolve long-pending territorial and security issues.
The arrests are being seen as one of the biggest recent moves by the NIA to dismantle networks linked to violence, arms looting and insurgency-related activities in Manipur.
The arrests were made during joint operations carried out by the NIA along with Manipur Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Churachandpur, Ukhrul, Chandel and Pherzawl districts.
According to the NIA, investigations revealed that the accused had played active roles in various incidents during the period of ethnic unrest, including attacks on security personnel, looting of arms and ammunition, and bank robberies.
The agency said evidence gathered through intelligence inputs, technical surveillance and field investigations led to the arrests.
Officials said the operation was aimed at identifying and prosecuting individuals involved in criminal and terror-related activities, irrespective of community affiliations.
The NIA is also probing possible links between various incidents of violence and insurgent groups operating in the region.
Investigators believe the arrests could help unravel larger conspiracy networks behind the violence, including those involved in planning, execution and logistical support. The agency is examining whether different incidents of unrest were interconnected and supported by organised groups.
Security analysts view the coordinated operation as a strong signal that central agencies are intensifying efforts to restore normalcy in Manipur and hold accountable those responsible for fuelling violence in the state.
The NIA said investigations in all the registered cases related to the Manipur ethnic violence are continuing and more arrests cannot be ruled out.
