A leader of the banned Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) and a fugitive wanted in a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) case have been identified as the masterminds behind the improvised explosive device (IED) attack at the Dhar Construction Company campus in Shymplong village, East Jaintia Hills district.
The blast, which occurred on the night of December 15, damaged a water tanker parked inside the campus. No injuries were reported.
Police have arrested two individuals in connection with the case — Richard Suchen (31) and Pynshaitbor Syih (45), both residents of Shymplong village.
East Jaintia Hills Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar stated that investigations revealed that Smiki Tongper of Shymplong village and HNLC cadre Issei Sungoh of Khliehriat had planned and executed the blast in coordination with the two arrested accused.
“Smiki Tongper is also a wanted accused in a separate case registered under the POCSO Act, while Issei Sungoh is wanted in connection with an earlier IED blast at the police reserve in Khliehriat and other unlawful activities,” the SP said.
During a search operation at Tongper’s residence and surrounding compound, police recovered a large cache of explosives and weapons, including safety fuses, detonators, empty detonator caps, gunpowder, metal splinters, a country-made rifle, handheld communication devices, and additional fuses.
The Superintendent of Police appealed to the public to assist the investigation, assuring confidentiality and rewards for credible information.
“Anyone with information about other persons involved in this illegal act is requested to inform the nearest police station. The identity of informants will be kept confidential and suitable rewards will be given,” Kumar added.
The case has been registered at Lumshnong Police Station under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with provisions of the Explosive Substances Act.
The banned HNLC had earlier claimed responsibility for the attack, alleging that the target was property linked to Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar following an alleged refusal to meet extortion demands.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma reiterated that such unlawful activities will not be tolerated and asserted that the government has sufficient evidence to act firmly against those involved.