Manipur CM Visits Sinai Camp After 17 Fake Cadres Nabbed
CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh visits Sinai Camp in Kangpokpi after security forces arrest 17 fake cadres and seize a massive arms cache.
In a move that marks a significant security milestone, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh visited the Sinai Camp in Khongbal Kuki village, Kangpokpi district, on Sunday, October 25, 2026. The Manipur CM Sinai Camp visit comes in the immediate aftermath of a major security operation that led to the arrest of 17 individuals accused of impersonating registered cadres.
A Historic Visit to an SoO Camp
The Sinai Camp is a designated site under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement. In a rare occurrence, this visit stands as the first time a sitting Chief Minister has entered an SoO-designated camp. Accompanied by MLA Thokchom Radheshyam Singh, the Chief Minister toured the facility to inspect the premises and interact with the joint security forces—comprising the Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, and CRPF—who had secured the area.
During his tour, Chief Minister Singh praised the security personnel for their vigilance and their role in maintaining order during a volatile period.
The Raid: Impostors and an Arms Cache
The visit followed a high-stakes operation on October 24. Security forces raided the camp after the killing of three firewood collectors in Nongshum. While the camp is officially designated to house approximately 150 cadres, authorities found only 17 individuals present during the raid.
These 17 suspects were arrested for allegedly using false identities to pose as registered cadres. The group includes:
- Eight individuals allegedly linked to the Kuki National Army.
- Nine individuals allegedly linked to the Kuki Liberation Army.
The crackdown yielded a significant recovery of illegal weaponry and tactical gear, including:
- 24 firearms
- 38 magazines
- Various quantities of ammunition and explosives
- Wireless communication equipment
A Call to End 'Gun Culture'
Addressing the security situation, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh took a strong stance against the prevailing violence in the region. He issued a call to end the "gun culture," asserting that lasting peace in Manipur is impossible as long as violence continues to plague the state.
While emphasizing the need for security, the Chief Minister also urged forces to exercise maximum caution during search operations. He stressed that the protection of innocent civilians is paramount, reaffirming that the government's primary responsibility is the preservation of life and property.
Legal Proceedings
The 17 arrested suspects are currently in police custody. They face charges under the Arms Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Their detention is scheduled until October 31, as investigators continue to probe violations of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) rules.