Based on specific inputs on the presence of a senior TPLA cadre at Bethel Veng village in Senapati district, an operation was launched by troops of Army's Jwalamukhi Battalion and the outfit leader was apprehended on June 3.
The insurgent identified himself as 45-year-old Nekholen Lhouvum alias Helen and said he was the 'commander-in-chief' of the group, the sources said.
He also confessed to being involved in kidnappings, incidents of shootings and extortions in Sadar Hill area along with his group members.
The sources said he was later handed over to Imphal West police station.