Shillong, Dec 21: Two persons have been arrested and explosives seized following an IED blast at a private construction camp in East Jaintia Hills earlier this month, with police confirming the involvement of a member of a banned militant outfit.
Police said the blast occurred around 12:15 am on December 15 at the Dhar Construction Company camp near Shymplong village. An FIR was registered at Lumshnong Police Station after the explosion was reported, and an in-situ forensic examination confirmed the use of an improvised explosive device and explosive substances.
The explosion damaged a water tanker truck parked inside the camp premises. No injuries or casualties were reported.
In connection with the case, police arrested Richard Suchen (31) and Pynshaitbor Syih (45), both residents of Shymplong village. Investigators said the blast was allegedly planned and executed by Smiki Tongper of Shymplong village in coordination with the two arrested persons and an unidentified member of the banned Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC).
During a search of Tongper’s residence and surrounding compound, police recovered explosive-related materials including safety fuses, detonators, gunpowder, metal splinters, a country-made rifle, handheld communication devices and additional fuses.
Police also revealed that Tongper is an accused in a separate case registered at Khliehriat Women Police Station under provisions of the IPC and the POCSO Act.
A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Explosive Substances Act, and further investigation is underway to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in the incident. Police have appealed to the public to share any information related to the case, assuring confidentiality and suitable rewards for credible inputs.
