NSCN (I-M) clarifies on truck arson incident

NSCN (I-M) has categorically denied any involvement in the torching of a TMT rod-laden truck on National Highway-2 near Kabinam village, Senapati district, Manipur, and clarified that the incident was the personal act of an individual who was no longer associated with the organisation.
NSCN (I-M) through MIP stated that it had come to its notice that one Ramayo Vashum, arrested by Senapati police in connection with the arson, was formerly a “major” in the Naga Army. MIP said he was compulsorily retired in 2022 due to misconduct unbecoming of his position.
NSCN (I-M) expressed regret over his alleged involvement in such anti-social activities but stressed that the incident was entirely his individual action and had “no connection whatsoever” with the NSCN (I-M) or its government.
The truck arson incident occurred on March 3, 2026, around 8 am, when unidentified persons set ablaze a truck bearing registration NL-07AA-2863, loaded with TMT rods, along NH-2 near Kabinam village in Maram area of Senapati district, Manipur.
The act had drawn sharp condemnation from Dimapur District Truck Owner Association (DDTOA) and the Dimapur District Truck Driver Welfare Trade Union (DDTDWTU), who described it as an “unethical and barbaric act” by unidentified individuals. The unions had demanded strict action against those responsible.