Manipur Extortion Cases: 121 Arrested, IGP Kabib Says Moral Policing Used As Front for Extortion, Warns Public

With new crack teams in place and an anti-extortion cell formed, police emphasize the need for community vigilance and reporting .

Amid escalating extortion activities across Manipur, state police arrested have 121 people directly involved in extortion cases and over 250 underground and gang members involved in such activities since last year, Manipur Police IGP (Intelligence) K Kabib said on Saturday.

This has been possible following a massive crackdown by the Manipur police.

IGP Kabib appealed for public cooperation to help combat these illegal practices, which are causing widespread economic hardship and psychological distress.

During a press conference held at the Imphal West SP Conference Hall, IGP (Intelligence) K Kabib outlined various preventive measures being implemented by law enforcement. However, he admitted that organized extortion continues to flourish despite these efforts. He urged citizens to report any extortion attempts or illegal demands, assuring them that their identities would be kept confidential.

Kabib also warned against communities taking the law into their own hands, as intelligence suggests that some cases of “moral policing” are actually fronts for covert extortion. Instead, he encouraged residents to report any suspicious individuals to the authorities.

“We appeal to the public to collaborate with law enforcement by reporting any suspicious activities. Together, we can put an end to this menace and restore peace and stability in the state,” Kabib urged.

Since the crisis began in May last year, underground groups and criminal gangs have been demanding money under the pretense of donations. Extortion has spread to national highways, markets, schools, and other institutions, with illegal taxes being levied.

In addition to extortion, these groups have been involved in kidnappings, grenade attacks, and issuing threats, further deepening the public’s economic struggles and anxieties.

In response, Manipur Police have established an anti-extortion cell, led by the ADGP (Law and Order), with all Zonal IGPs as members. This cell oversees anti-extortion efforts across the state. Additionally, 15 specialized crack teams have been formed in different districts to target these criminal activities, IGP Kabib added .

To ensure the safe movement of essential goods along National Highway 2, 16 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) companies have been deployed for Road Opening Patrols, with two extra companies providing truck escorts.

Police have identified several extortion hotspots and increased patrols, frisking, and surveillance in these areas.

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