IMPHAL: A total of 109 different types of weapons, along with ammunition and other miscellaneous items, were handed over to police and security forces by the public in four districts of conflict-stricken Manipur, authorities confirmed on Friday.
At the Saikul police station in Kangpokpi district, one 9mm CB1A1 pistol, a 9mm magazine, a grenade, cartridges, two wireless sets, and other materials were surrendered on Thursday.
In Bishnupur district, weapons, including one SBBL gun, were turned in at the Phougakchao Ikhai police station. Additional arms and ammunition were also handed over at various police stations in Imphal West and Imphal East districts, according to the police.
Earlier in February, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla had appealed to the people of Manipur to voluntarily surrender looted and illegally held weapons within seven days, assuring that no punitive action would be taken against those who complied during this period.
The ongoing ethnic violence between the Meitei community in the Imphal valley and the Kuki-Zo groups in the surrounding hills has resulted in over 250 deaths and displaced thousands since May 2023. Following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, the Centre imposed President’s rule on the state on February 13. A notification from the Ministry of Home Affairs has placed the Manipur Assembly under suspended animation until 2027.
