Manipur Security Forces Arrest Five Militants Including Chin Kuki Mizo Army Chief
October 03, 2025 | Today Manipur Administration confirmed that the security forces have successfully arrested five militants, including the self-styled Commander-in-Chief of the Chin Kuki Mizo Army (CKMA), Paokholen Guite, in a major anti-militancy operation in Churachandpur district. The operation marks a significant step toward curbing arms trafficking and extortion activities in the region.
Details of the Arrest and Operation
Paokholen Guite, identified as the chief of the newly formed Chin Kuki Mizo Army, was apprehended from the S. Munuam area in Churachandpur. Security forces seized two AK-47 rifles with magazines, 31 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition for AK-47 rifles, 150 rounds of 7.62 mm SLR/LMG ammunition, Rs 1,00,000 in cash, a bulletproof pouch, a car, and two mobile phones.
Guite was reportedly involved in the trafficking of weapons and drugs across the India-Myanmar border. His network supplied arms and narcotics to militant groups that have not signed the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement with the government, such as the United Kuki National Army (UKNA). In addition to arms trafficking, Guite was also engaged in extortion activities in the region.
Arrest of Other Militants
Alongside Guite, security forces arrested four other militants from various banned outfits including the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), the United People’s Party of Kangleipak (UPPK), and factions of the Kuki National Army. These arrests took place in Imphal East, Imphal West, and Thoubal districts, emphasizing a coordinated crackdown across Manipur.
Some of these militants were involved in extorting brick kiln owners and quarry workers, as well as the general public in valley areas of Manipur. Notably, members of the PLA have been accused of a deadly ambush in September on an Assam Rifles convoy in Bishnupur district, leading to the death of two personnel.
Impact and Government Response
Authorities hail this operation as a significant success in disrupting militant networks and illegal cross-border trafficking. The arrests are expected to deal a major blow to armed groups operating without peace accords in Manipur and bring some relief to affected communities.
Further investigations are underway to track down Guite’s associates and financial backers. The Manipur government continues to intensify efforts against insurgency and criminal activities undermining peace and development in the northeastern state.
The arrest of five militants, including the Chin Kuki Mizo Army chief Paokholen Guite, by Manipur security forces highlights ongoing efforts to restore law and order in the region. With significant arms and narcotics seizures, the operation sends a strong message against militancy and illegal trafficking that threaten stability.
