Manipur’s security situation worsens as police officers in Kangpokpi receive extortion threats from militants. Amid growing unrest, the Superintendent of Police has issued a stern warning against yielding to such demands.
BY PC bureau
Manipur’s Lawlessness Deepens: Militants Now Extorting Police in Kangpokpi
Kangpokpi, Manipur – In a striking example of the growing lawlessness in Manipur, militants have reportedly begun extorting money from police personnel in Kangpokpi district. In response, the district’s Superintendent of Police (SP) issued an official memorandum on February 27, instructing officers not to yield to these demands.
The memo stated: “A few organizations are demanding money from police personnel in Kangpokpi. It is hereby strictly instructed to the rank and file of the Kangpokpi district police to abstain from yielding to the demand.”
While the memo did not name any specific militant group, security officials believe that Kuki-Zo militant groups operating in the region could be behind the extortion attempts.
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Militant Activity in Kangpokpi
Kangpokpi district is predominantly inhabited by the Kuki-Zo tribe and has long been a stronghold of Kuki-Zo communities. The district has seen escalating tensions as several Kuki-Zo militant groups, many of which operate under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the Indian government, continue to exert influence in the region.
Militant groups active in Kangpokpi include:
- Kuki National Army (KNA)
- Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRA)
- Kuki Revolutionary Army (KRA)
- United Kuki Liberation Front (UKLF)
- Kuki National Organisation (KNO) (which includes multiple factions like KNA)
- Zomi Council-affiliated groups
These organizations have historically engaged in armed resistance, advocating for Kuki-Zo self-determination and autonomy. While some are part of peace negotiations, recent events suggest a surge in militant activity despite ongoing talks.
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Mob Attack on Kangpokpi SP
Kangpokpi was in the news last month on January 4, when Superintendent of Police M. Prabhakar was injured in a violent mob attack. Security forces had been deployed in large numbers in the district following protests by Kuki groups against the continued presence of BSF and CRPF personnel in Saibol village.
On that evening, protesters stormed the SP’s office, pelting stones and petrol bombs, leading to widespread vandalism. Several district police vehicles were damaged inside the compound. SP Prabhakar suffered a forehead injury after being hit by a projectile but is reportedly in stable condition and continuing to lead response efforts.
Security Response and Rising Tensions
Following the attack, additional security forces have been deployed across Kangpokpi to prevent further violence. A senior officer in Imphal confirmed that authorities are closely monitoring militant activity and unrest in the district.
The recent escalation highlights the fragile security situation in Manipur, where militant groups continue to operate despite government efforts to maintain order. With law enforcement officers themselves becoming targets of extortion and violence, the crisis in Kangpokpi is another indication
