Shillong witnessed a series of suspected arson incidents early Saturday, with three government vehicles and a tourist taxi set ablaze across different parts of the city. Police have launched an investigation into the attacks, which occurred within a short span of time.
Details of the Incidents
The vehicles targeted belonged to key government agencies, including the police, the health department, and the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO), along with a tourist taxi. East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem confirmed that the damaged vehicles included one police vehicle, one health department vehicle, one NEEPCO vehicle, and one tourist taxi.
Timing and Locations
The incidents took place between 3 am and 4 am. A police vehicle parked at the Kench's Trace Beat House was set ablaze around 3 am, causing damage to the hood and seat before the fire was quickly doused. Around the same time, a health department vehicle parked near Synod College at Lumdiengjri was partially damaged after being set on fire. Another NEEPCO vehicle parked along the roadside at Mawlai Phudmuri was also partially burnt, with damage reported to its interior. A tourist taxi was also among the vehicles targeted.
Investigation Underway
No arrests have been made so far. Police are probing the incidents to identify the miscreants and determine whether the attacks were coordinated. The motive behind the arson remains unclear.
About the Author
Manosh Das is based in Meghalaya and reports on local issues including security, politics, and social developments, providing detailed coverage of events in the Northeast region, especially Meghalaya. His work reflects ground-level realities and concerns of the state's diverse communities.
