Shillong, August 21: A series of suspected arson attacks involving petrol bombs and the torching of vehicles were reported from Shillong, Nongstoiñ and West Jaiñtia Hills between Thursday night and early Friday.
In Shillong, unidentified persons allegedly hurled two petrol bombs at the National People’s Party (NPP) office at Lower Lachumiere at around 5 am on Friday. Of the two petrol bombs, one exploded while the other failed to ignite. No damage or injuries were reported as the explosive device landed on the ground outside the office.
According to information available, the incident occurred during a brief gap in security presence. One security guard had completed his duty and left the premises, while the guard reporting for the next shift had stepped outside when the petrol bombs were allegedly hurled.
Police and forensic personnel later arrived at the NPP office and carried out a detailed examination of the spot. An investigation has been launched to identify those involved and ascertain the motive behind the attack.
The incident came amid similar cases of suspected arson reported from other parts of Meghalaya.
In Nongstoiñ, West Khasi Hills district, two government vehicles were completely gutted after unidentified miscreants allegedly set them on fire on Thursday night. A Mahindra Maxx bearing registration number ML01-4130, parked at the Nongstoiñ C&RD Block, and a Gypsy parked at the Sib Sing Syiem Inspection Bungalow of the PWD (Roads) were destroyed in the fires. In another incident, unidentified persons allegedly hurled a petrol bomb at the office of the Superintending Engineer, PWD (Roads), Western Circle, Nongstoiñ at around 11.30 pm on Thursday.
Meanwhile, in West Jaiñtia Hills district, a Scorpio bearing registration number ML01-6416 was set ablaze at Mookymphad Mihmyntdu village early on Friday. The Scorpio was earlier a government vehicle and had subsequently been auctioned, but its registration number had reportedly not yet been transferred to the new owner. The vehicle was reportedly being driven by former Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) MDC S. Sari.
Police are investigating the incidents, while the identities of those responsible and the motive behind the attacks have yet to be established.
