Imphal, June 25 (UNI) In a major breakthrough, Manipur Police dismantled an inter-state network of arms smugglers and dealers operating clandestinely in the Greater Imphal area, police said today.

A 'commander' of a militant organization was also nabbed in another operation. Police said altogether nine militants were apprehended.

A self-styled commander of a militant outfit was nabbed with arms and ammunition by the Bishnupur district commando unit.

Police said four suspects were arrested in connection with the illegal arms trade. Nine pistols , including Smith & Wesson (two), Sig Sauer, Glock 19, JD Taurus 7.65 mm, Falcon Cal 7.62 mm, M-20 Falcon, Keltec .32 mm, Beretta, and Glock .32 were recovered. Police said they were allegedly involved in transporting unauthorized firearms across state borders.

In a separate incident , three active cadres of a militant group were arrested from Babupara, Imphal West, for their involvement in extorting money from government employees to secure contracts.

Security forces also apprehended a suspect who is an active member of a banned outfit. Another arrest was made in Singjamei, Imphal West, where police nabbed a militant.

Meanwhile, the state police arrested a vehicle lifter, identified as BM. Aziz Hashmir of Lilong Hangamthabi, Thoubal district from a village road near his residence. A two-wheeler without registration number was recovered. Two other stolen vehicles were also recovered from different areas, police added.

Police have also issued 49 challans amounting to Rs. 90,500 to motor vehicle offenders. Tinted films were also removed from various vehicles, police said.



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