TURA: In a major crackdown following recent unrest in the Garo Hills region, Meghalaya Police have arrested 28 individuals for their alleged involvement in instigating communal violence. Among those arrested is former Member of District Council (MDC) from the Balachanda constituency, Sofiur Rehman.
According to officials, Rehman was apprehended at around 1:00 AM from his residence in New Bhaitbari under Rajabala Police Station in West Garo Hills district.
West Garo Hills Superintendent of Police, Abraham T. Sangma, confirmed that Rehman is suspected of playing a significant role in orchestrating the disturbances.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong stated that the investigation is ongoing and may extend beyond Garo Hills if evidence indicates the involvement of individuals from Khasi and Jaintia Hills.
“The investigation is ongoing, and we will update as more arrests are made. We must ensure such incidents do not recur,” Tynsong said. He added that police are acting on all registered FIRs and will take action against every individual found involved.
Security remains heightened across the affected areas as the state government continues to closely monitor the situation.
A high-level review of the law and order situation is scheduled for later in the day. Authorities indicated that if peace prevails, the government may consider lifting the curfew and restoring mobile internet services in the affected districts.
The Deputy Chief Minister reiterated that the government’s priority is to restore normalcy at the earliest while ensuring that those responsible for the unrest face legal consequences.
