FRPM, INF urge
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 12 2024:
The Forum for Restoration of Peace (FRPM) and the Imphal Naga Forum (INF) have jointly appealed armed groups to refrain from carrying out "forcible collection of cash" from bus/winger counters, spas, shops, beauty parlours, hotels and other business establishments in Khuman Lampak area.
FRPM and INF drew the attention of the State Government to beef up security measures like frisking and checking in the area.
A joint statement issued by Ashang Kasar, convenor, FRPM; Islam Makakcha, co-convenor, FRPM and Ambition Anth, convenor, INF expressed distress over unabated extortion and other illicit activities taking place at various business establishments at Khuman Lampak area and other places in Imphal valley allegedly by an unidentified armed group.
Accusing these individuals of issuing threats and using abusive language against bus/winger counters, shopkeepers, spa and parlour owners demanding huge ransoms, the statement added that a few shopkeepers have reportedly closed shop over these demands.
Stating that the area has become the "epicentre of extortions", FRPM and INF stated that the unrestrained, unwanted and unwarranted collection of cash reflects the complete failure of the law and order.
"Businessmen, shopkeepers and parlour managers are on the run now fearing for their life over the huge and repeated demands by the armed groups", the joint statement alleged.
FRPM and INF called for an end to such extortions taking into consideration the restive and volatile situation prevailing in the State and added that the fragile peace which exists in Imphal should not be derailed by such illegal activities.