IMPHAL: Security agencies in Manipur have alerted the Centre after finding that 158 registered cadres were unaccounted for at a designated camp of Kuki militant groups in Kangpokpi district, raising questions over compliance with the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement.
The discrepancy came to light during a verification exercise at Sinai Camp in Saimol village, where around 159 cadres of the Kuki National Army (KNA) and Kuki Liberation Army (KLA) were expected to be present. Security personnel found only one registered cadre at the camp, while 17 other individuals were arrested after their identities allegedly failed to match official records.
A joint team of the Central Reserve Police Force’s Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), its Quick Action Team and Manipur Police took control of the camp. Officials said the arrested individuals included eight people claiming links to the KNA and nine claiming links to the KLA. Their identities and possible links to Myanmar are being investigated.
Security forces also seized 24 firearms, including AK-series rifles, along with ammunition, magazines, explosives, wireless communication equipment and other material. The 17 accused have been remanded to eight days of police custody until October 31. Investigators are examining possible impersonation, unauthorised possession of weapons and violations of the SoO ground rules.
The operation followed the October 19 killing of three Meitei civilians near the Imphal East-Kangpokpi border. The camp’s inspection was part of heightened security measures following the killings. Authorities have not established a direct link between those arrested at the camp and the civilian deaths.
The SoO agreement, involving the Centre, the Manipur government and Kuki-Zo armed groups represented by the Kuki National Organisation and the United People’s Front, expired on September 4 and has not been renewed. Officials have said it has not been formally abrogated, and cadres are still expected to remain in designated camps.
Security agencies are expected to extend verification to other designated camps across Manipur.