Manipur police arrested three militants from the banned G-5 group for allegedly threatening participants of the recent Sangai festival, a senior officer said on Friday, December 5, 2025. The arrests took place in Imphal West and Imphal East districts. The police have registered five cases related to these threats. "Three cadres of G-5 have been arrested from Imphal West and Imphal East districts. Investigations are underway to identify several others and take necessary legal action against those who were involved in issuing threats," said the officer. The G-5 group is composed of five banned organizations: UNLF, KCP, KYKL, Prepak, and Prepak (Pro). They had imposed a one-year ban on four drama troupes that participated in the festival. The group also demanded all stall owners and participants issue a public apology before December 10. The Manipur Police have assured strict action against anyone trying to intimidate or disrupt cultural and public events in the state. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla called the Sangai festival "an important outreach platform" that gathers tourism stakeholders from across India and abroad. However, this year's festival saw a very low turnout due to protests by internally displaced persons (IDPs), caused by ethnic violence in the region. Since May 2023, over 260 people have died and thousands have been displaced due to conflict between the Meiteis of Imphal Valley and the Kukis from surrounding hills.