The National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Imphal has officially arrested Thongminthang Haokip, alias Thangboi Haokip or Roger, a member of the Kuki National Front-Military Council (KNF-MC). This arrest is linked to an incident on April 27, 2024, in Bishnupur District, Manipur, where two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed and two injured. The Special Court NIA in Manipur authorized his formal arrest, remanding him to NIA custody until October 28, 2024.
Originally detained on June 6, 2024, at Imphal Airport for a separate investigation by NIA Delhi, Haokip is currently held in District Jail, Rohini, New Delhi. The recent court proceedings occurred via video conferencing, with a thorough review of the evidence presented.
On October 25, Manipur Police revealed on social media platform X the discovery of several items during a security operation in Bishnupur District. Recovered weaponry included an SLR 7.62 mm, magazines, various grenades, and an improvised explosive device (IED) weighing approximately 2.3 kg, among other items.
A separate operation on the same day in Imphal West District yielded additional weapons, including a single-barrel gun, locally-made pistols, hand grenades, and ammunition. These operations underscore ongoing security challenges and efforts to curb militant activities in the region.
This arrest and the subsequent recovery of arms highlight the persistent threat posed by armed insurgent groups in Manipur, reinforcing the importance of continued vigilance and coordinated security responses.
