Myanmar-Sourced Weapons Entering India Through Cadres of Insurgents

The investigation focuses on alleged gun-running operations by some cadres of banned outfits, sourcing weapons from Myanmar

- OUR CORRESPONDENT

IMPHAL/NEW DELHI: Security agencies in Manipur have intensified a probe into an arms smuggling racket from Myanmar with potential nationwide ramifications, following the arrest of a senior leader from a Valley-based Insurgent Group (VBIG).

The investigation focuses on alleged gun-running operations by some cadres of banned outfits, sourcing weapons from Myanmar and reportedly distributing them across India using forged documents and the help of registered gun houses.

The case was cracked by Manipur police in the last week of June, leading to the arrest of four people, including Sinam Somendro Meitei alias 'Richard,' a self-styled Lieutenant Colonel and Project Secretary of the banned terror outfit United National Liberation Front (UNLF-P).

Richard's arrest highlights a concerning aspect of the UNLF-P's current engagement with peace processes. While the organisation announced a ceasefire in November 2023 and signed an agreement with the Manipur government, it has since been accused of dragging its feet on surrender negotiations.