Two members of banned UNLF held in Manipur

Mon Nov 25 05:43:11 UTC 2024: ## Manipur Police Arrest Two UNLF Members for Extortion

**Imphal, Manipur – November 25, 2024** – Manipur Police announced the arrest of two active members of the outlawed United National Liberation Front (UNLF) Pambei group on Monday for alleged extortion activities. Thoudam Ibungobi Meitei and Chanam Rashini Chanu were apprehended in Imphal East district on November 23. Authorities recovered arms, ammunition, a wireless radio set, and a mobile phone during the arrest.

Despite signing a peace agreement with the central government in 2023, the UNLF (Pambei group) has continued to be involved in criminal activities, police confirmed. This arrest follows a separate operation in Kangpokpi district, where additional arms and ammunition were seized.

These arrests come amidst ongoing ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, which has resulted in over 250 deaths and thousands displaced since May 2023. Recent events, including the discovery of the bodies of six Meitei civilians who went missing after a gunfight involving security forces and Kuki-Zo militants, have heightened tensions. The situation in Manipur remains volatile.