Manipur: Security Forces Steps Up Combining Operations In Hills Amidst Hostage Crisis Fear.

Imphal; May 2026: Amid escalating tension and an unfolding hostage crisis in Manipur, security forces have intensified deployment and movement across parts of Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts following reports of the suspected presence of militants in the region. According to sources, security personnel have significantly stepped up deployment and surveillance in the Henglep area of Churachandpur district amid intelligence inputs regarding militant activity, today (18th May 2026).

“In continuation of the operations to rescue the missing persons, combing and search operations were carried out by security forces in the hill ranges to the north-west of Leilon Vaiphei and Kharam Vaiphei villages in Kangpokpi district. Search operations are continuing”, a statement issued by the Police Control Room asserted today (Monday – 18th May 2026).

Sources indicated that a major operation could be launched in the area as security agencies continue surveillance, combing operations and area domination exercises across the sensitive hill terrain. The intensified security measures come amid reports of several persons from both the Naga and Kuki communities going missing following the recent tensions.

According to claims made by the respective community groups, 06 Naga individuals and 14 Kuki individuals are currently missing and are allegedly being detained or abducted. Officials from the state Home Department earlier stated that initial reports suggested more than 38 people had gone missing following the violence. Maverick News 30 have reported that 31 individuals have been released at different locations across Manipur.

During a meeting with the United Naga Council at Senapati on May 15, the Home Department sought additional time to determine the exact number of persons who remain missing. Security agencies continue intensive operations in the affected areas as efforts remain underway to trace the missing persons and restore normalcy.

Team Maverick.