Imphal, Sept. 11 -- Manipur Police and state social welfare officials rescued a minor girl and arrested three people during an early-morning operation in Imphal East district on Thursday. A fourth suspect escaped and remains at large.

The operation was conducted in Keibi village after officials received intelligence late Wednesday night that several minor girls were allegedly being prepared for trafficking outside the state.

Manipur Social Welfare Director Sheikh Abdul Hakim said at a media briefing on Thursday afternoon that he personally took part in the operation. He said officials received information about the alleged trafficking plan at around 11:00 PM on Wednesday.

Given the urgency, officials sought immediate approval from the ...