Security forces and Manipur Police have arrested five cadres linked to valley-based insurgent groups (VBIGs) in Tengnoupal district, while also apprehending a key accused in a recent truck arson case along National Highway-2.

According to official sources, the arrests were made on March 16 during a coordinated operation in the sensitive border belt under Moreh Police Station. The operation was conducted along the Indo-Myanmar border between Border Pillars 73 and 75.

The arrested insurgents have been identified as Thangjam Ashok Kumar Singh alias Khongthang of Waikhong village and Laishram Nipamacha Singh alias Loiya of Sagolmang Awang Leikai, both linked to PREPAK; Thangjam Manimatum Meitei alias Sana of Sugnu Awang Leikai, associated with KYKL; and Laishram Inao Singh alias Sanamacha of Urup Makha Leikai and Chingangbam Shakti Singh alias Phairen of Lamlai Nongada, both affiliated with KCP-MFL.

In a separate development, Manipur Police achieved a breakthrough in connection with a truck arson incident reported earlier this month. The incident involved the burning of a truck at Kabinam village in Senapati district along National Highway-2 on March 2.

Following an investigation, police arrested the key accused, identified as 51-year-old Ramayo Vashum from Kathiko Karong in Senapati district, on March 14.

Officials stated that a Maruti Gypsy (registration number MN08 A0099) and two mobile phones allegedly used in the commission of the crime were seized during the operation.