Security forces have arrested two key cadres of the banned outfit People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in connection with the 19th September ambush on 33 Assam Rifles personnel at Nambol Sabal Leikai in Bishnupur district.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Thongram Sadananda Singh alias Ngachik alias Purakpa (18), a resident of Wangbal Heiruthong Leikai in Thoubal district, and S/S Lt. Corporal Chongtham Mahesh alias Momo alias Amo Singh (51), of Keishampat Leimajam Leikai, Imphal West district.

According to police, Sadananda Singh was formally arrested earlier, while Mahesh, a senior cadre of the PLA who has been associated with the outfit since 1990, was apprehended in Guwahati, Assam. His arrest was made possible with the assistance of the Crime Branch Police Station, Guwahati.

Authorities confirmed that the duo played a major role in the ambush, which had earlier led to the apprehension of another prime accused in the case. Further investigation into the incident is currently underway.