Manipur official gifted grenade-stuffed fish

IMPHAL: A Manipur government official was gifted a grenade-stuffed fish by suspected militants in the Wangkhei area of Imphal East district.

Loitongbam Somorendro, (Thoubal) district supply officer of the consumer affairs, food and public distribution department, received the 4-kg polythene-wrapped Sareng fish at his residence from three unknown men. A note containing a mobile number and the words "This is a gift for sir" was also found inside the fish, a source said.

The grenade was discovered when the fish was being filleted by a family member. Assuming that the object was a stone inserted by fish mongers to increase the fish's weight, the he continued to fillet it. However, on closer scrutiny, he became suspicious and immediately informed the police.

A team from Imphal East district police reached the official's house and identified the object as a Chinese hand grenade. The discovery shocked Somorendro's family and neighbours. Police safely retrieved the grenade and said the incident might be linked with extortion. A case has been registered.