Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 27:
A huge cache of arms and ammunition were seized by BSF troops during a raid at a hideout belonging to the Hmar People's Convention Democratic (HPCD) at Rengkai village in Churachandpur district this morning.
The seizure was made during an operation code named Operation Cold Wave conducted by 32 Bn BSF posted at Churachandpur based on the information allegedly provided by one "active" cadre of HPCD who surrendered at the 32 Bn BSF today.
The seized arms and ammunitions were displayed before mediamen at the BSF Sector HQs, Koirengei today BSF DIG Manipur and Nagaland PK Mishra said that one HPCD cadre identified as Lalhmudika (27) of Renkai village surrendered to BSF early this morning.
Following the information, the BSF personnel led by CO PS Bains raided the house of one PS Robert at Rengkai village.
He further said that 19 cadres of the HPCD including Robert had already left the hideout when the raid was conducted.
During a thorough search of the house, the BSF party unearthed a wooden box which contained the arms and ammunitions.
The seized weapons include 2 AK 56 rifles, one AK 47 rifle, one point 9 mm CM, one US carbine calibre 30 M2, one 9 mm sten gun, 198 rounds of AK series ammunition, 28 rounds of 9 mm ammunition, 10 rounds of 7.62 mm BDR, 60 rounds of AMN WR 52, nine AK magazines, two AK 56 rifle bayonets, 8 water bottles, three uniform jacket, four ammunition pouch, 8 haversacks and one pull through, Mishra said.
He also announced that the surrendered cadre will be provided proper job in the BSF.
Operation Sheet Lahar (Operation Cold Wave) has been carried out by BSF to fight insurgency during the winter season, he said adding that five more battalions are expected to be deployed in the State in the ensuing State Assembly elections.