Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has strongly condemned the brutal killing of a young man in the West Garo Hills district and assured that the perpetrators will face the strictest punishment under the law. He urged citizens to maintain peace and communal harmony as authorities tighten security in the area.The incident occurred around 2 p.m. on January 9 at Goalgaon under Rajabala Police Station. The victim, Dilseng M. Sangma, son of Gaban Ch. Marak from Amokgre village in Phulbari, was reportedly attacked by unidentified assailants. He was rushed to the Bhaitbari Community Health Centre and later referred to Tura for advanced treatment but tragically succumbed to his injuries while being shifted.Calling the attack “tragic and unfortunate,” Chief Minister Sangma said, “Yesterday, a young life was lost and another person injured in a very tragic incident in Garo Hills. We condemn this act in the strongest terms and extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family.” He added that the police and district administration are investigating the case and promised that “all those involved in this heinous crime will be brought to justice.”Following the killing, West Garo Hills Police carried out multiple raids and arrested three suspects. The search is underway to locate others who may have been involved. Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner has engaged with community leaders and civil society groups to form a peace committee, aimed at promoting calm and preventing communal tension.An emergency review meeting was held late Friday night at the Superintendent of Police’s office in Tura, attended by senior district officials, police officers, and representatives of the ACHIK NGO. The meeting assessed the current security situation and discussed immediate steps to safeguard public safety. Authorities are also considering preventive measures such as imposing a night curfew and temporarily suspending internet services to prevent the spread of misinformation or unrest.Rajabala MLA Dr. Mizanur Rahman Kazi also condemned the incident, expressing his condolences and assuring that he is in constant touch with the Chief Minister and district administration. “The culprits will not go unpunished. We are committed to maintaining peace, law and order, and brotherhood among all communities,” he said.Dr. Kazi informed that a peace committee meeting has been scheduled at 3 p.m. today in Rajabala, to be attended by the Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police, senior community leaders, and NGOs. As a mark of respect for the victim and solidarity with his family, all shops from Hallidayganj to Gomaijhora will remain closed from 12:30 p.m. on Saturday.He assured that the situation remains peaceful and urged people to avoid spreading rumours. Chief Minister Sangma also appealed to citizens to rely only on verified information from official sources as the investigation moves forward.