Imphal, March 30: A man was arrested with 117 pre-activated mobile SIM cards and other documents during an operation in Manipur’s Imphal West on Saturday.

The accused has been identified as Wahengbam Ajit Meetei, also known as Apa (32).

According to police, he was arrested for illegally selling pre-activated SIM cards by using the credentials of other individuals without their consent or knowledge.

“The SIM cards are suspected to have been sold to anti-social elements who use them for various illegal activities, including extortion,” said a police official.

Police recovered 117 pre-activated SIM cards from two mobile service providers, a mobile handset, and an Aadhaar card.

“The sale of activated SIM cards came to light during investigations into cases of abduction, intimidation, and forceful collection of ransom from traders, businessmen, government employees, contractors, and selected individuals,” the official added.

He further stated, “Such SIM cards are suspected to be used by underground militants, anti-socials, and criminals for extortion and intimidation. During the investigation of a recent criminal case, it was discovered that the subscriber in whose name the SIM card was issued was unaware of its existence.”

Police have advised all mobile service providers to ensure proper periodic verification at all levels, warning that failure to do so would result in strict legal action.

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