Security agencies in Manipur have delivered significant blows to illicit narcotics distribution and regional militancy through coordinated multi-agency operations. A key suspect accused of heading an extensive contraband cough syrup distribution network was apprehended in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Simultaneous operations across Imphal West, Wangoi, and Bishnupur districts resulted in the recovery of 8,320 bottles of codeine syrup concealed near a riverbank, an assortment of firearms and communications gear, and the detention of an active member of a banned insurgent group.
Racket Kingpin Traced and Arrested in Gujarat
The inter-state crackdown stemmed from an FIR initially lodged at Porompat Police Station following the arrest of three individuals with illegal consignments on October 4. As investigators examined the logistics and supply channels behind the seized items, they identified the primary coordinator as Nongthombam Jamesjit, also known as Thoi. Jamesjit, the son of N Meghajit, runs Kangla Drugs & Surgical Pharmacy situated in Naoremthong Bazar within Imphal West. Law enforcement personnel tracked his trail to Ahmedabad and placed him under arrest on October 6. Police secured a four-day transit remand from local judicial authorities to transport him back to Manipur, where interrogation is expected to map out the broader distribution pipeline.
Major Seizure Along Oinam Thingel Riverbank
Crucial disclosures made by one of the individuals arrested earlier provided actionable leads regarding a hidden shipment. Acting on this intelligence, a combined detachment comprising Manipur Police, central security forces, and YADAM executed an intensive ground search along the banks of the Oinam Thingel river. Their sweep uncovered a concealed stockpile containing 52 cartons of CHOCO+ cough syrup. Each carton held 160 units, bringing the total haul to 8,320 bottles. Chemical specifications confirmed that each bottle contained 10 mg of Codeine Phosphate, a strictly regulated substance frequently diverted into illegal abuse networks. Authorities confirmed that further inquiries are progressing to uncover additional local links.
Weapons Cache and Militant Apprehension
Complementing the narcotics operations, security units carried out parallel sweeps targeting illegal arms and insurgent elements elsewhere in the state. On October 7, personnel from Wangoi Police Station working alongside central security forces combed areas near the Waishen River following specific intelligence inputs. Their search led to the recovery of a 7.62 mm SLR rifle accompanied by a magazine, a single-barrel breech-loading (SBBL) gun, nine assorted rounds of live ammunition, and three handheld wireless sets.
During another targeted operation on October 7, Bishnupur district commandos apprehended an active cadre belonging to the banned outfit United National Liberation Front (People) [UNLF (P)]. Officials identified the operative as 48-year-old Md Karimuddin Shah, alias Rafe, who was intercepted at Kwakta Khuman Awang Leikai. Authorities noted that Shah had alleged involvement in a 2025 grenade attack carried out at Kwakta Terakhongshangbi. Police confiscated a Honda Activa scooter and a mobile phone found in his possession during the raid.
