SHILLONG: In a major enforcement drive spanning 45 days, the East Jaintia Hills Police have launched an intensive crackdown on illegal coal mining and its associated logistics networks, registering 62 FIRs and arresting 14 accused persons.
The aggressive operation was initiated in the aftermath of the deadly Mynsngat–Thangsko mine blast, which claimed over 30 lives, prompting authorities to intensify action against unlawful mining activities across the district.
Since January 1, 2024, police action has resulted in 62 FIRs registered for illegal coal extraction and transport, 14 arrests across multiple locations, 15,224.72 metric tonnes of coal seized (with further assessment underway by the DMR) and recovery of 25.5 kg of gelatin explosives and 74 detonators, along with five vehicles.
Officials said the seizures indicate the scale and sophistication of the illegal mining syndicates operating in the region.
The enforcement drive was preceded by a major administrative reshuffle aimed at strengthening ground-level monitoring. Leadership changes were carried out at four key police stations — Lumshnong, Umpleng, Lad Rymbai and Khliehriat.
This realignment was intended to dismantle entrenched networks, improve intelligence gathering, and ensure strict accountability.
Police made arrests in several cases:
-
Umthe Operation: Sahanaj Uddin and Abansan Syrti arrested
-
Mynsngat–Thangsko Raid: Seven suspects apprehended, including Forme Chyrmang, Shameki War, Process Phawa, Tensing Suchiang, Yoomiki Syih, Ernest Swer, and Rangsing Syiemlieh (alias Mithun)
-
Umpleng Operation: Narayan Majumdar, Salim Uddin Choudhury, and Safrul Islam Choudhury held for possession of explosives
-
Umkiang Takedown: Rishna Sutnga and Skhemborlang Kshiar arrested
ALSO READ:
Thangsko Tragedy: Miner Declared Dead Found Alive, Govt Issues Corrigendum
Meghalaya HC Warns Officials, Orders Report on Illegal Mining in East Jaintia Hills Within 10 Days
Meghalaya Orders Judicial Probe, Launches Crackdown on Illegal Mining After Thangsko Mine Blast
Meghalaya Pushes for Small-Scale Scientific Mining, CM to Decide on Inquiry
In a move to widen accountability, police have begun fixing responsibility on local dolois and village headmen in areas where illegal activities continue. Officials said this step is aimed at eliminating “blind spots” and preventing the misuse of traditional authority structures by illegal operators.
Senior officials said the combined strategy of administrative restructuring and strict law enforcement reflects a new “zero-tolerance” approach toward illegal coal mining in East Jaintia Hills.
Authorities reiterated that sustained monitoring, swift legal action, and community accountability will remain central to ensuring that unlawful extraction and transport activities are permanently dismantled.
