Security forces in Manipur carried out major operations on Wednesday night arresting a key insurgent and destroying an extensive poppy plantation in two districts of the state.
In Bishnupur district, security personnel apprehended Pukhrambam Diamond Singh, 33, a known active cadre of PREPAK (PRO). Singh, a resident of Bishnupur Awang Leikai ward no. 1, was arrested at Tera Urak crossing checkpoint under Bishnupur police station jurisdiction. He was reportedly involved in extorting money from local residents, shopkeepers, and businessmen in the Imphal East area. During the operation, authorities seized a mobile phone from him, which is now being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
Meanwhile, in Kangpokpi district, security forces, in collaboration with the Kangpokpi Forest Division, destroyed poppy plants spread over approximately 53 acres. The illegal cultivation was spread across six locations in the Phailengkot and Makhan hill ranges under the Koubru Reserve Forest area, falling under Gamnom Sapermeina police station. Authorities also demolished seven farm huts found at the sites. In addition, 35 packets of salt, commonly used in poppy processing, were seized and destroyed. 
