Manipur Police seize arms used in ‘Separation Day’ gun salute

Manipur Police on Saturday seized five single-barrel guns and multiple camouflage uniforms allegedly used during a ‘Separation Day’ event in Saikul, Kangpokpi district, where armed men were seen performing a gun salute in defiance of official orders.

The event, organised by the Kuki Inpi Saikul Gamkai, was held at Saikul Public Ground on May 3 to mark the anniversary of the ethnic violence that erupted last year. A video circulating on social media showed participants in military-style attire conducting a ceremonial gun salute, prompting swift police action.

“In connection with the gun salute incident, an FIR has been registered. Local elders were summoned, and subsequent raids led to the seizure of five single-barrel guns and several camouflage uniforms,” the Manipur Police Control Room said in a statement. Police added that further operations are underway to trace others involved and recover additional arms. Legal proceedings will be initiated against the organisers.

Ahead of the event, the Churachandpur District Magistrate had issued a restriction order allowing May 3 commemorations under strict conditions, including a ban on camouflage clothing and carrying of weapons such as sticks, lathis, or firearms.

In a separate development, security forces arrested a drug pedlar and recovered 5.016 kg of suspected brown sugar—estimated to be worth Rs 47.8 crore in the international market—from Churachandpur district. The contraband was packed in 418 soap cases.

The accused has been identified as Thianmuansiam Samte (32), a resident of Gamgpimual village in Churachandpur, which is predominantly inhabited by members of the Kuki community.

Security was heightened across Manipur on Friday ahead of the second anniversary of the 2023 ethnic clashes. Joint forces conducted flag marches in Imphal East and West to maintain calm, while frisking and checking operations were intensified in both valley and hill districts.