Manipur police arrested three militants belonging to the banned Kangleipak Communist Party (Apunba) for their role in a bomb explosion in Imphal West district. The arrests happened over the last two days from Imphal East and West districts. Police recovered a pistol and ammunition from them. The bomb blast took place at Lilong Chajing area in Imphal West three days ago. Security forces have increased search operations since May 2023, after ethnic violence erupted between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups. The unrest has killed over 260 people and left thousands homeless, police said.