Shillong, October 22: Meghalaya Police have sought the deployment of additional central paramilitary forces following a series of petrol bomb attacks in Shillong, including the latest incident targeting the Enforcement Directorate (ED) office at Shyiap in the early hours of Thursday. The attack on the ED office was the fourth such incident reported in the city within 48 hours, raising concerns over the law and order situation despite intensified police patrolling and security checks.
According to police, unidentified miscreants hurled a petrol bomb at the ED office, which landed on the steps leading to the building. No injuries were reported, although window panes were damaged in the incident. The latest attack comes amid a series of similar incidents reported since Tuesday in different parts of Shillong, including Kench’s Trace, Keating Road and Laitumkhrah.
Speaking to reporters, Superintendent of Police (City) Dangsan Khyriem acknowledged that the attacks had continued despite regular security checks, mobile patrols and foot patrolling across Shillong and its outskirts. He also confirmed that a petrol bomb attack had taken place at Langkyrding on Wednesday, although no damage was reported.
Khyriem said police would further intensify security arrangements by increasing the number of checkpoints and strengthening patrolling in vulnerable areas. He informed that the police had initiated the process of requisitioning central paramilitary forces and expected additional personnel to arrive within the next few days.
However, he said the number of companies to be deployed was yet to be determined. Assuring the public that efforts were being made to maintain peace and stability, the SP said the police were determined to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of residents.
Regarding the investigation, Khyriem said police were actively searching for those responsible for the attacks, although the motive behind the incidents remained unclear. He suspected that the attacks were being carried out by miscreants attempting to create unrest and disturb law and order in the city.
Police are examining CCTV footage, collecting evidence and following available leads to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. A case has been registered in connection with the latest incident, and investigations are underway. Khyriem expressed hope that a breakthrough would be achieved soon, while reiterating that security measures would continue to be strengthened across Shillong.
