SHILLONG: The office of the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) came under attack on Monday afternoon when three unidentified masked men allegedly hurled a petrol bomb at its premises.
The incident occurred around 12 noon.
Personnel from Laitumkhrah Police Station, along with the Crime Scene Unit, responded swiftly and launched an investigation.
The attack is suspected to be linked to the recent public hearing conducted by the MSPCB for Shree Cement Limited’s proposed limestone mining project at Lum Syrman, Elaka Nongkhlieh. That hearing became controversial after project opponents alleged they were blocked from attending due to road blockades and stone-pelting, while only supporters were allowed in.
MSPCB Member Secretary Dr. G.H. Chyrmang told reporters that the board has filed a formal complaint with Laitumkhrah Police Station.
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According to eyewitnesses, three individuals arrived at the office on two scooters. CCTV footage reportedly shows two suspects entering the premises, lighting a petrol bomb in a secluded area, and hurling it toward the office before fleeing.
When asked if the attack was connected to the public hearing, Dr. Chyrmang said the motive was yet to be established.
He stated that the board had no known disputes and confirmed that no one was injured and no official records or documents were damaged in the attack.
Police have launched an investigation to identify the attackers and determine the motive behind the incident.
(4FrontMedia news)
