Noney: A Naga pastor who also serves as a school headmaster has been arrested for alleged extortion along National Highway 37 in Noney District.
On 09.09.2026, a team of A/66 CRPF arrested Pastor Shimray (30), S/o (L) Joseph Shimray of Mapum Village, Ukhrul District, belonging to the Naga community, while he was allegedly extorting money from transport vehicles at Chainage No. 111 near Rengpang Market / Milestone No. 117 on NH-37.
The Naga pastor was reportedly intercepted during routine checking. On search, security personnel seized 01 .32-calibre pistol with magazine and six live rounds, cash amounting to Rs 33,300/-, and 01 walkie-talkie set from his possession.
According to sources, the accused is a serving Naga pastor/evangelist and headmaster of a school in Ukhrul. He was allegedly collecting illegal tax from commercial vehicles plying on the highway.
He has been handed over to local police for further investigation and legal action.
The arrest comes amid stepped-up security along NH-37 and NH-2, the two lifelines of Manipur, following repeated complaints of illegal taxation and selective blockades targeting vehicles. Security agencies have intensified checking to ensure free movement of essential commodities.
Meanwhile, the Manipur Government’s August 28 order prohibiting all forms of road blockade and warning of prosecution remains in force, but ground reports suggest extortion and checking continue at several points, affecting drivers and traders.
