NIA to probe Manipur arms seizure case

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) will probe the seizure of arms and ammunition, which were to be delivered to insurgent groups, in Manipur's Ukhrul area.

A case in this regard was registered by the probe agency following a directive from the Union Home Ministry.

The case relates to recovery of arms and ammunition from a vehicle in Manipur in May this year.

On May 21, the Assam Rifles searched a white Maruti Gypsy near Lower Hungdung, which was moving from Ukhrul towards Imphal.

Upon searching the vehicle, large quantities of weapons, including two GSG-5 German rifles, one semi-automatic shotgun and three 9mm pistols, and ammunition concealed in handbags were recovered, a statement issued today by the NIA said.

Honpam Chithung, son of Akhon Chithung and resident of Ukhrul district, and Mathu Manohar, son of Arumugam Muthu and native of Tengnoupal district in Manipur, were occupants of the vehicle, it said.

They were arrested on charges of procurement and supply of arms and ammunition to insurgent groups, the statement said.

A case was registered by the Manipur Police which has now been taken over by the NIA.

The case is now under active investigation, the agency said.