A faction of Manipur Police commandos staged a symbolic “arms down” protest in Imphal Wednesday following the abduction of a senior police officer from outside his residence. The abduction, believed to be in retaliation for the officer”s attempt to detain militants involved in ethnic violence, ended in a two-hour-long rescue operation.

Videos circulating from Imphal showed numerous commandos laying down their weapons at their unit”s compound. An anonymous official cited dissatisfaction among the commandos. “…they are unhappy with the state government for not giving them a free hand to tackle armed miscreants,” an official was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

As of Wednesday morning, no arrests had been made in connection with the abduction of Additional Police Superintendent (Operations) M Amit Singh and his colleagues.

According to a statement by the Manipur Police, over 200 militants stormed Singh”s residence, causing extensive damage and gunfire before abducting him and his guards, all of whom were subsequently rescued.

Reports indicate that the abduction was perpetrated by the Meitei vigilante group Arambai Tenggol. A source familiar with the situation revealed that the officer”s abduction followed the detention of some members of Arambai Tenggol earlier in the day for offenses including carrying weapons and vehicle theft.

Kuki groups have accused Arambai Tenggol of orchestrating violence against tribals in Manipur since the outbreak of ethnic violence on May 3 last year. The Arambai Tenggol has faced allegations ranging from murder to attacks on security forces, extortion, and arson, with Kuki groups alleging political backing for their actions.

Last month, Arambai Tenggol summoned 38 lawmakers and Meitei politicians to pledge to uphold “Manipur”s integrity,” resulting in the assault of at least three legislators who did not support the state government. However, no formal complaints were filed by any legislator.

Ethnic violence in Manipur has claimed over 200 lives and displaced nearly 50,000 people since May last year. Officials say the situation has degenerated into anarchy, with underground militant factions regaining support.

Manipur”s demographic makeup comprises Meiteis, constituting approximately 53% of the population and residing predominantly in the Imphal Valley, and tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, who constitute 40% and primarily inhabit the hill districts.