A tense atmosphere gripped Heirok last midnight as a massive joint operation by Thoubal CDO, CRPF, and RAF units led to the arrest of seven individuals allegedly linked to the banned militant outfit KCP (PWG).
The raid, carried out around 2:20 AM near YBC Club close to the SDC office in Heirok Part III, triggered chaos as villagers clashed with security personnel, accusing them of targeting local village volunteers, known as Khun ngakpa. According to eyewitness accounts, the late-night swoop sparked panic and anger among residents, many of whom rushed out to challenge what they claimed was an unjust crackdown on community defenders.
The standoff escalated, prompting security forces to resort to firing tear gas shells to disperse the crowd. Several security vehicles were reportedly damaged in the melee.
The police, however, have maintained that the operation was based on credible intelligence and resulted in the arrest of seven KCP (PWG) militants, identified as Waikhom Tinku (28), Md. Riwas alias Pat, Angom Bobi alias Wataba (33), Ningthoujam Choaba Singh alias Hingchaba (38), Laishangthem Tomba alias Thabal, Md. Sirajuddin alias Kham (45), and one juvenile aged 15.
A significant cache of arms and ammunition, ranging from INSAS rifles, a carbine, and an MA3 MK-11 to SLR and .303 rounds, along with communication equipment, propaganda materials, and two vehicles, were seized from the suspects.
In a strongly worded statement, the police clarified that while some villagers attempted to obstruct the operation through stone-pelting, only non-lethal measures were employed to restore order.
They further appealed not to defame the Khun ngakpa or the village volunteers who have been instrumental in defending their communities by linking them with underground elements.
“The Khun ngakpa must not be equated with armed militants. They are community defenders, not criminals,” the police stated, acknowledging the delicate line between law enforcement and community trust.
