October 22, 2025

In a dramatic border crackdown, Assam Rifles arrested two militants linked to a Myanmar-based armed group on October 18 in Manipur's Chandel district. The district lies right along the India-Myanmar border, making it a hotspot for such activities. The paramilitary force revealed that these two men belong to the United Tribal Volunteers Group. "The two cadres were arrested on October 18 near the Sajik Tampak area in the district, which shares a border with the neighbouring country," said the Assam Rifles in a statement on October 22. This operation was no random act; it was planned based on specific intelligence, expertly halting an attempt at cross-border militant movement along this sensitive frontier. "Acting on specific intelligence, the operation effectively thwarted an attempt at cross-border militant movement along the India-Myanmar frontier," the statement added. After their capture, the two suspects were handed over to Chakpikarong Police for further investigation. Why does this matter so much? Because Manipur has been wracked by severe ethnic violence since May 2023. The conflict between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups has tragically resulted in over 260 deaths and thousands of people losing their homes. This arrest brings hope that stricter border control might help ease the tensions and violence that have battered this region for more than two years. The Assam Rifles' action serves as a clear message: India is alert and ready to stop any outside forces from fuelling unrest within its borders.

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Tags: Manipur, Assam rifles, Myanmar militants, United tribal volunteers group, Ethnic violence,