Surrender Looted, Illegally Held Weapons Within Seven Days Or Face Strict Action: Manipur Governor To All Communities In State

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has urged people of all communities in the state to voluntarily surrender looted and illegally held weapons and ammunition within the next seven days.

He assured that no punitive measures would be taken against those who comply within this period.

However, he cautioned that after the seven-day window, authorities would take “strict action” against people found in possession of such weapons.

Since the conflict began in May 2023, around 6,000 weapons have been looted from state armouries.

Even after 21 months, there are still sporadic attempts to seize weapons from these armouries, Indian Express reported.

On 8 February, six self-loading rifles (SLRs) and three AK-series weapons were looted from a police outpost in Thoubal district.

The police, however, recovered them the next day.

Around 1,200 looted weapons have reportedly been recovered so far.

“I sincerely request the people of all communities, particularly the youths in the Valley and Hills, to voluntarily come forward and surrender looted and illegally held weapons and ammunition to the nearest police station/outpost/security forces camp within the next seven days, with effect from today. Your single act of returning these weapons can be a powerful gesture towards ensuring peace. I want to assure you that no punitive action will be initiated if such weapons are returned within the stipulated time. Thereafter, strict action will be taken for possession of such weapons,” read a statement by the Governor.

“The government is committed to ensuring a peaceful resolution of the situation and safeguarding the future of our youths. Let us rebuild our state together with hope and trust for a brighter future. Come forward and choose peace,” it stated.

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