Meghalaya police have arrested two men in connection with an improvised explosive device attack that damaged a water tanker truck at a construction company near Shymplong village in East Jaintia Hills district on December 15. The arrests were based on an FIR registered at Lumshnong Police Station on December 16. Forensic analysis confirmed the use of an IED, though no injuries or casualties were reported in the incident. Police seized explosives and arms, linking the plot to a member of the banned Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC).
The arrested persons – Richard Suchen, 31, and Pynshaitbor Syih, 45, both residents of Shymplong village, have been charged under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Explosive Substances Act. Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar informed that the investigations have identified a third suspect, Smiki Tongper, as the alleged mastermind who planned and executed the attack. Tongper is suspected to have coordinated the attach with the two arrested individuals and an unidentified member of HNLC. She is also wanted in connection with a separate case registered at Khliehriat Woman Police Station involving charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.
A search of Tongper’s residence yielded significant evidence, including three rolls of safety fuse, three detonators with six empty caps, gunpowder, 82 metal splinters, a country-made rifle, and two Baofeng wireless handsets.