Imphal, May 3: Manipur police have seized four vehicles illegally transporting 25 containers filled with petrol and diesel along the India-Myanmar border. The operation took place on Saturday, with officials confirming the arrests of the drivers involved.
A senior police officer indicated that the seized fuel was likely intended for smuggling into neighboring Myanmar. The vehicles were reportedly heading towards Moreh in Tengnoupal district, an area adjacent to the open international border with Myanmar.
The arrested drivers have been identified as Elvis Lamkang (23), Mohammad Abas Khan (47), Dangsawa Koshil Pipachum (56), and Mohammad Mujibur Rahman (35). All of them are residents of Chandel, Thoubal, and Kakching districts.
Manipur shares a 398-kilometer-long unfenced international border with Myanmar across five districts: Churachandpur, Tengnoupal, Chandel, Kamjong, and Ukhrul. This sensitive border region is considered a major route for the smuggling of heroin, methamphetamine tablets, exotic animals, and other prohibited goods.
In a separate operation, security forces dismantled 23 illegal bunkers in the hills of Ukhrul district, specifically in the villages of Mongkot Chepu, Shongfel, Mullam, Sirarakhong, and Ringue. So far, over 150 illegal bunkers created by militant organizations and armed groups have been destroyed across various districts.
Since February, Ukhrul district has witnessed several incidents of violence, making it one of the most sensitive areas in the state in recent months. Central and state security agencies are conducting extensive operations against militant activities, with ongoing search operations and area dominance exercises in border, mixed-population, and sensitive regions.
To curb illegal activities and the movement of suspicious vehicles, a total of 114 checkpoints have been established in the valley and hill districts of Manipur. Additionally, security escorts are being provided for trucks carrying essential goods on the Imphal-Jiribam National Highway (NH-37). Strict measures have been implemented to ensure the safety of convoys in sensitive areas.
Meanwhile, Manipur police have urged the public to disregard rumors and remain cautious of fake videos circulating on social media. The police stated, “The authenticity of any viral video or audio clip can be verified through the central control room. Legal action will be taken against those who upload or share fake posts on social media.”
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