3 UNLF ultras arrested in Manipur, CM Biren Singh appeals to Centre for unconditional release

The self-styled UNLF army chief Thokchom Thouba and intelligence officer Laimayum Ingba along with an ultra were arrested by a joint team of NIA personnel and Assam Rifles troops from the Kwakeithel area in Imphal West district on Wednesday morning.

Notably, the Pambei faction of the UNLF signed a peace agreement with the Centre last November. It was the first major Meitei militant group to come to the negotiating table.

Reacting to the development, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said the news of the arrests was not officially intimated to the state government.

The CM said the reason for the arrest of the three was yet to be ascertained. He, however, appealed to the Centre for the unconditional release of the UNLF leaders.

Biren Singh further said the state administration has requested the Centre to apprise it before making any such arrests.

Meanwhile, FOCS President Th Manihar said the NIA arrested UNLF personnel in total disregard of the peace agreement. He also termed the arrests as an insult to the people of Manipur.

Manihar said a team representing civil society organisations will soon leave for New Delhi to discuss the matter with Home Ministry officials. He warned that they would intensify their agitation if the UNLF leaders were not released soon.