Sambalpur, July 26: Three weeks after the Jujomura bloodbath, police have arrested 10 people in connection with the nightlong operation in which five villagers were killed.

The arrested rebels ? the first major catch after the incident ? include core activist Arta Bhue.

However, a key Maoist from Jharkhand, Damdev, and local leader Gobardhan Budek continue to be at large, said superintendent of police Sushant Kumar Nath last night.

Besides Bhue, the police have arrested Jasobanta Nayak alias Jasa of Marang Bahal, Kusa Bhue of Murtal, Bhramar Mirdha and Bishal Mirdha of Tapopara, Niladri Mirdha of Kumka, Rahas Bag and Bhakta Bhue of Baraloi, Rama Kaitha of Char Bahali and Bilu Behera of Mochi Bahal. Only five of the 10 arrested were believed to be directly involved in Maoist operations while the others were sympathisers.

Niladri, the police said, was instrumental in supplying explosives to the Maoists, Nath said.

Bhue joined the Maoists in 2004 and has taken part in 17 operations in Sambalpur and Deogarh. He is also known to have handled organisational activities in Basiapara, Baraloi and Dhama, persuading the tribals to join their ranks.

Sources said Bhue played a key role in the Jujomura carnage, which started on the night of July 6 and continued till early next day. Five residents of Tampersingha, Banjhari Tikra and Larabira were killed and a house damaged in the attack.

?Arta was caught from a forest near Marang Bahal. Based on his information, the others were arrested and police got vital clues on their activities,? the SP said.