Kangpokpi man held with drone batteries in Assam
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 14 2024: Acting on a tip-off regarding potential sabotage activities by a Manipur-based armed organisation, Special Task Force (STF) of Assam Police intercepted a vehicle at Sonapur Toll Gate on NH 27 on Friday morning.

The operation commenced following receipt of reliable information about unau thorised transportation of drones and related equipment.

The STF tailed the vehicle (AS 01 FU 3927) from Sixth Mile, halted it at Sonapur Toll Gate and apprehended one Khaigoulen Kipgen (27), son of Hen-sat Kipgen from Gamngai village under Saparmeina police station of Kangpokpi district.

He was traveling with two minors when intercepted.

While conducting a thorough search of the vehicle, the STF team recovered cash amounting to Rs 3,40,000, four pairs of shoes, a mobile handset and 10 TB30 Intelligent Flight Batteries, suspected to be used in drones, which intelligence suggest are materials for illicit purposes.

The confiscation of these items, particularly the drone batteries, underscores a clandestine network of certain banned organisations in Manipur to procure drones for nefarious activities.

The seizure is particularly significant in the context of the current ethnic conflict in Manipur, where surveillance drones are rampantly used by armed militants.

The conflict has seen an increase in the use of advanced technology, including drones, for reconnaissance and coordination of militant activities.

The recovery of drone batteries from the intercepted vehicle suggests a potential escalation in the sophistication of these militant operations.

The arrest of Khaigoulen Kipgen and the recovery of potentially dangerous equipment mark a significant step in the ongoing efforts to curb illegal activities and maintain security in the region.

The STF is conducting necessary formalities, including a detailed inventory of the seized items and verification of the identities of those apprehended.

Further investigations are underway to uncover the full extent of the activities planned by the banned organisation and to identify any other individuals involved in the procurement and transportation of the equipment.

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