The Manipur Police have conducted multiple raids targeting the illegal sale of SIM cards using fake identities, resulting in the arrest of six militants and the disruption of an extortion scheme in the region. The operation comes amid India’s strengthened regulations requiring mandatory Aadhaar-based biometric verification for all new SIM cards, implemented to prevent such fraudulent activities.
The operation, carried out on February 13, 2025, led to the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against individuals involved in the distribution of SIM cards obtained through fraudulent identification documents. The police action was initiated in response to the use of these illegally obtained SIM cards in extortion and intimidation activities.
The raids are part of a broader law enforcement initiative to address illegal telecommunications activities in Manipur. The crackdown supports India’s nationwide push for stricter SIM card authentication measures, which includes enhanced biometric verification protocols scheduled for full implementation in 2025.
Law enforcement officials have indicated that the investigation remains active, with additional operations planned to identify and apprehend other individuals connected to the illegal SIM card distribution network. The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in preventing the misuse of telecommunications services for criminal activities, similar to recent operations in other regions such as Kashmir’s crackdown on illegal SIM networks.
The enforcement action demonstrates the implementation of stricter measures regarding SIM card registration and verification processes in the region. Mobile service providers in India are required to follow Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols when issuing SIM cards to prevent their fraudulent acquisition and misuse. The measures are part of a comprehensive digital identity verification framework that includes India’s enhanced Central KYC Registry, which is being upgraded with AI features to strengthen verification processes across the financial and telecommunications sectors.
Sources: Northeast Today, Assam Tribune
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