Manipur’s Kangpokpi district SP has instructed police personnel not to give in to monetary demands from illegal organisations. The directive was issued in response to reports of illegal taxes and donations being collected in the state by several armed groups. Security forces have arrested more than 50 militants in the past two months for their direct involvement in extortion-related activities across the state. In January, the Manipur government set up a dedicated anti-extortion cell comprising state police, central armed forces, and the army under the home department. The objective was to create an efficient and robust response mechanism to combat extortion and ensure public safety, officials said. The cell was formed after \”reports indicated that various people, including government officials, have been threatened with severe consequences via calls, messages, or letters by unlawful organisations,\” an official said. For confidential support on suicide matters call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org for details. In the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255.
