During a search operation in Manipur's Thoubal district, security forces seized a range of arms and ammunition, police reported on Sunday. The operation, conducted near Irong Hill by STNBA Gate on Saturday, resulted in the recovery of a 9mm pistol, four hand grenades, a detonator, and 12 cartridges. In addition, authorities confiscated four empty magazines, six empty cartridges, and a smoke grenade.
The region has been gripped by ethnic violence since May last year, with clashes between the Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and the Kukis from the adjoining hills. The unrest has claimed more than 200 lives and displaced thousands of people, leaving communities in turmoil.