Imphal, August 12: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has appealed to residents of both hill and valley regions to surrender any illegal firearms within 15 days. Failure to comply will result in legal action, he warned.
Speaking at a demonstration of recovered weapons, ammunition, and explosives at the Imphal-based First Battalion Manipur Rifles parade ground, the Chief Minister stated that individuals can submit their illegal arms through their respective legislators or district police superintendents.
This display of confiscated weapons is part of the government’s efforts to restore normalcy and enhance peace and security in the state. Khemchand Singh emphasized that strict legal measures would be taken against those who do not surrender their illegal arms within the stipulated time frame. He noted that the ethnic violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, has adversely impacted the state’s development.
The Chief Minister urged all sections of society to cooperate with the government and security agencies to restore peace and normalcy. He highlighted that since the formation of the new government on February 4, 2026, several peace initiatives have been launched to establish lasting peace across various districts. He mentioned that law and order had stabilized during the period of President’s Rule.
Recently, Manipur’s Director General of Police (DGP) Mukesh Singh reported that approximately 70% of the weapons looted during the ethnic violence have been recovered, with ongoing efforts to retrieve the remaining arms and ammunition.
According to government reports, over 6,000 sophisticated weapons and millions of cartridges were looted from police stations and security force armories by armed assailants and militants during the ethnic violence that began on May 3, 2023.
The campaign to recover looted and illegally held weapons commenced on May 31, 2023, following an appeal from then-Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. This effort intensified after a new appeal from Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla.
During the event, the Chief Minister shared that he had met with representatives from the Hmar, Paite, Meitei, and Meitei Pangals communities during a visit to the Jiribam district. He noted that they shared a meal together, fostering mutual trust and agreeing to work collaboratively for peace.
Khemchand Singh reiterated the government’s ongoing commitment to establishing peace and visiting areas previously inaccessible due to the crisis. He reported that the displayed weapons and ammunition were recovered by security forces since February 5, 2026, totaling over 1,422 firearms.
The Chief Minister commended DGP Mukesh Singh and teams led by the Border Security Force (BSF), Assam Rifles (South), and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for their significant recovery efforts in a short time.
Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh warned that strict action would be taken against any organization or individual involved in extortion, threats, or harassment on national highways. He mentioned plans to file cases under the National Security Act (NSA) against active extortionists and troublemakers on national highways.
DGP Mukesh Singh reported that between February and August 2026, joint operations by Manipur police, central armed police forces, the army, Assam Rifles, and other security agencies resulted in the recovery of 1,422 weapons, over 7,000 cartridges, and 1,137 explosives. Additionally, 491 militants from various organizations have been arrested. To protect youth from drug threats, Manipur police have intensified their anti-drug campaigns.
During the event, a book titled “Manipur Marches to Peace,” published by the Information and Public Relations Department, was distributed to all attendees. A short film showcasing the government’s initiatives was also screened.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Loci Dikho, Minister of Art and Culture Khuraijam Loken Singh, legislators, senior administrative officials, and police officers.
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