Security Forces Arrest PLA Members Connected to Manipur Ambush Amid Concerns of Political Contract Killing

Intelligence reports indicate Valley-Based Insurgent Groups (VBIGs) maintain substantial presence in Imphal valley.

Security forces have initiated a significant operation against the banned People's Liberation Army (PLA), a valley-based insurgent organization in Manipur, resulting in 15 arrests including two primary suspects directly linked to the Assam Rifles convoy ambush last month that resulted in two soldiers' deaths.

The main suspects were identified as 18-year-old Thoungram Sadananda Singh (alias Purakpa) and 47-year-old Khomdram Ojit Singh (alias Keilal). Officials confirmed these arrests occurred within 72 hours of the Nambol ambush.

Security agencies are reportedly examining whether the PLA has been operating with political backing. This investigation follows the United National Liberation Front's (UNLF) recent ceasefire announcement and agreement to join the suspension of operations (SoO) arrangement already established with 24 Kuki insurgent groups and the Union Home Ministry.

According to officials, certain groups with vested interests are attempting to undermine President's rule—a measure that has effectively reduced ethnic violence in the state. These elements are promoting the narrative that the current administration is ineffective and advocating for immediate restoration of the suspended state assembly.

The Assam Rifles convoy attack occurred on September 19 at Nambol Sabal Leikai, a denotified area where the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) is not applicable and where CRPF typically handles road security.

Naib Subedar Shyam Gurung and Rifleman Ranjit Singh Kashyap lost their lives during the ambush on the road connecting Patsoi to Nambol base.

Officials revealed that six weapons recovered during ongoing operations were likely stolen from a police armory during the 2023 ethnic clashes, suggesting that weapons originally intended for communal conflict are now being utilized by insurgent groups against security forces.

A vehicle suspected of involvement in the Nambol ambush was recovered approximately 12 km from the attack site in Mutum Yangbi.

Thoungram Sadananda Singh, one of the arrested suspects, was formerly associated with UNLF and had recently transferred to PLA after his previous organization decided to surrender, officials stated.

In an unusual development, the PLA did not claim responsibility for the Nambol incident, despite consistently acknowledging all operations throughout its 48-year history. Intelligence reports suggest the PLA central leadership may have been unaware of or did not authorize the attack.

This has prompted intelligence agencies to investigate whether the Nambol incident might have been a politically motivated contract killing intended to destabilize the state's fragile environment, discredit President's rule, or prevent the restoration of popular governance, officials added.

Following the attack, Governor Ajay Bhalla presided over an emergency high-level meeting emphasizing the importance of coordinated action from all security agencies to swiftly identify the perpetrators and enhance security in vulnerable areas, particularly major highways and transportation routes.

While arrests continue, observers are expressing concern about the resurgence of previously banned organizations including disaffected members of UNLF, PLA, Kanglei Yawol Kanba Lup (KYKL), and People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK).

Authorities have cautioned that ceasefire declarations may enable these groups to redirect their weaponry against the very communities they claim to defend. The UNLF, with an estimated 250 discontented members, is known for significant extortion activities targeting contractors and business owners. The PLA, originally called 'Polei,' aims to liberate Manipur and establish an independent Meitei homeland.

KYKL, primarily financed through extortion, is described as a mercenary organization lacking unified ideology, while PREPAK funds itself by extorting commercial establishments, particularly pharmacies, and maintains close connections with drug trafficking operations.

Intelligence reports indicate that VBIGs continue to maintain significant presence in the Imphal valley and along the India-Myanmar border.

The PLA is estimated to have approximately 500 members, while PREPAK (both factions), KYKL-OKEN, UNLF-K, and KCP-NOYON collectively comprise around 550 members. The Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) reportedly has about 900 members, and the National Revolutionary Front of Manipur (NRFM) approximately 200.

Since May 2023, Manipur has experienced ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kukis, stemming from disputes over land rights and political representation. This unrest has claimed over 260 lives and internally displaced nearly 50,000 people.