Seven KCP (PWG) Arrested in Joint Late-Night Operation at Heirok

Heirok, April 20:

In a major breakthrough against insurgent activities, a joint operation by Thoubal CDO and multiple CRPF units led to the arrest of seven members of the banned outfit KCP (PWG) in the early hours of Sunday. The operation was carried out at YBC Club near the SDC Office, Heirok Part III, based on a credible intelligence tip-off.

The operation commenced at around 2:20 AM and involved CRPF Sector QAT, Range Imphal QAT, and QATs of the 109, 69, 66, and 86 battalions, along with a company of A/99 Rapid Action Force (RAF).

Arrested Individuals:

1. Waikhom Tinku (28), s/o Waikhom Ranjit Singh

2. Md. Riwas alias Pat, s/o Md. Rafique, Porompat, Imphal East

3. One juvenile (15 years old)

4. Angom Bobi alias Wataba (33), s/o Angom Imo Singh, Nongada

5. Ningthoujam Choaba Singh alias Hingchaba (38), s/o Ningthoujam Kulabidhu, Thongju

6. Laishangthem Tomba alias Thabal, s/o L. Dasu Singh, Thoubal Leishangthem

7. Md. Sirajuddin alias Kham (45), s/o Md. Ito, Phoidel Moirangpali

Items Recovered:

  • Weapons: 1 INSAS LMG, 2 INSAS rifles, 1 Carbine with 3 magazines, 1 MA3 MK-11 rifle, along with SLR and .303 caliber ammunition
  • Ammunition: 76 rounds (5.56mm), 69 rounds (9mm), and assorted .303 and SLR rounds
  • Equipment: Multiple mobile phones, radio sets, charger units, pistol holsters, uniform items, and ID cards
  • Vehicles: A blue Honda Activa 6G and a Chevrolet Beat (MN01S-6442)
  • Other Seized Items: KCP-PWG badges, propaganda materials, Nepali and Indian currencies, a debit card, and a blank cheque

Clarification on Village Volunteers (Khun ngakpa):

During the operation, a few locals attempted to obstruct the security forces with stone-pelting. Security personnel employed non-lethal means to control the situation. Some security vehicles sustained minor damages, but the situation is now under control.

Authorities have strongly clarified that the Khun ngakpa—village volunteers who play a key role in defending their communities—must not be conflated with insurgent groups. Equating the arrested militants with these local defenders would unjustly criminalize genuine volunteers and harm community trust in grassroots defense mechanisms.

The arrested individuals are currently under investigation as authorities continue their crackdown on extremist elements threatening public peace and security in the region.