Meghalaya: Masked men hurl petrol bombs at MSPCB office; probe underway
Guwahati: A petrol bomb attack on the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) office in Shillong has led to a police investigation, with authorities searching for two unidentified persons allegedly involved in the incident.
Police said the attack took place around 12:15 pm on Monday when employees were inside the office. The two suspects, who were wearing masks, reportedly arrived on a scooty, entered the premises and threw two petrol bombs before leaving the area.
No injuries were reported following the attack, police said. The motive behind the incident has not been established so far, and efforts are underway to identify the individuals involved.
As part of the investigation, officials are examining CCTV recordings from the area. A case has been registered at Laitumkhrah police station based on a complaint submitted by the MSPCB.
Shillong City Superintendent of Police Dangsan Khyriem said police have initiated legal action after receiving the complaint from the board. He confirmed that two petrol bombs were used in the attack and said further action would be taken based on the FIR.
When asked if the incident was linked to opposition against a proposed limestone mining project in East Jaintia Hills, Khyriem said it would be premature to make any connection at this stage.
An MSPCB official said the board has approached the police and that both police personnel and forensic experts visited the office to gather evidence.
The attack took place shortly after the MSPCB conducted a public hearing on a proposed limestone mining project of Shree Cement at Lum Syrman in East Jaintia Hills, amid opposition from local groups.
Residents, farmers and civil society organisations have been objecting to the project over concerns related to environmental damage and its impact on livelihoods.