6,000 Arms Looted From Security Forces In Manipur Since Ethnic Clashes Erupted, Says Lt Gen RP Kalita

Eastern Army commander Lieutenant General Rana Pratap Kalita on November 21 said more than 6,000 arms have been looted from security forces since ethnic clashes between Meitei and Kuki communities erupted in Manipur on May 3.

6,000 Weapons Looted From Security Forces In Manipur, Says Lt Gen RP Kalita

Of them, 1,500 arms have been recovered from commoners while more than 4,500 arms are still in the open.

“There are some legacy issues between three communities – Kuki, Meitei and Nagas – living in Manipur due to which normalcy has not returned to the state even after more than six and half months of the beginning of the clashes,” Lt Gen RP Kalita said speaking as the Guest of Guwahati Press Club.

“Weapon smuggling and drugs trafficking along the India-Myanmar border have been checked, even as there are some isolated instances. Since 4,000 weapons are already out in the open I think there is no requirement for weapons to come from outside,” he added.

Replying to a question on immigration from Myanmar due to the unrest in the neighbouring country, Lt Gen RP Kalita said, ”India is giving shelter to every unarmed person who seeks refuge, but armed cadres of various militant groups and drug traffickers are not allowed to enter in.”