In a first-of-its-kind case in Manipur, the police arrested Heisnam Sanjit Kumar (33) for allegedly stealing a battery from a mobile tower at Bashikhong Bazar in Imphal East. Officials confirmed the arrest on Monday, noting that the incident marks the state’s initial reported case of mobile tower battery theft.
Sanjit Kumar, a resident of Moirang Konjengbam Leikai in Bishnupur district, was apprehended from Kongba Bazar under the jurisdiction of Irilbung Police Station. The stolen battery has a market value of Rs 80,000, while the battery along with its accessories is worth approximately Rs 2 lakh.
Police investigations revealed that the theft required technical expertise, as disconnecting the battery improperly could trigger a dangerous explosion. Officials noted that some perpetrators in similar cases have been ex-employees, using their prior knowledge and old identification to gain access to mobile towers.
Such thefts can have serious consequences, potentially disabling mobile services during emergencies when backup batteries are crucial. The police have recovered some of the equipment and are continuing investigations to trace further links.
Heisnam Sanjit Kumar has been remanded to police custody for four days, and authorities are actively probing the case to prevent similar incidents in the future.
