SHILLONG : The Meghalaya Police Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the August 19 violence during the Khasi Student Union’s (KSU) black-flag bike rally has arrested another KSU member, taking the total number of arrests in the case to five.
East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem said on Thursday that Samuel Kharbani of the KSU Nongmensong unit was arrested after investigators allegedly ascertained his involvement in the violence.
Two KSU members from Nongmensong had been summoned to Sadar Police Station in connection with a separate case concerning the locking of a temple at Mawdiangdiang.
According to Syiem, while their statements were being recorded, the SIT also examined their alleged involvement in the August 19 violence.
“After ascertaining facts during investigation, Samuel Kharbani has been arrested. Celestine Lyngdoh’s involvement was not found, so he was released,” the SP said.
Charges invoked in KSU violence case
Police have invoked provisions under the Meghalaya Maintenance of Public Order Act, the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita in connection with the case, including provisions relating to unlawful assembly and other alleged offences.
The latest arrest comes after four KSU leaders were previously arrested in connection with the August 19 violence, which erupted during the organisation’s black-flag bike rally in Shillong.
According to police, the violence resulted in two vehicles being burnt, 31 vehicles being vandalised and 18 people being assaulted.
With Kharbani’s arrest, the total number of people arrested in connection with the August 19 violence has now risen to five.