SHILLONG: An Area Commander of the Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) surrendered before the police on February 25, alongside the arrest of two other cadres allegedly involved in IED blasts.
According to a report from the Assistant Inspector General of Police, the high-ranking HNLC member who surrendered has been identified as Samuel Wahlang Pahsyntiew (also known as Samuel Wahlang), son of the late Edwin Lyngdoh Mawnai and Beryl Wahlang Pahsyntiew, a resident of Umpohwin village, Ri-Bhoi District.
Samuel surrendered before the Superintendent of Police (SP) of Eastern West Khasi Hills District, Mairang, in the presence of his family members, community leaders, and senior police officials.
Alleged Involvement in IED Blasts
It is suspected that Samuel was involved in the IED blast at the Syndicate Bus Stand, Them Mator (Harijan Colony) on March 9, 2024, in addition to several other illegal activities over the past few years.
During interrogation, Samuel reportedly confessed that for approximately two years, he had been attempting to recruit new youths into the HNLC, conspiring with members of the outfit based in Bangladesh.
Further Arrests in Umsning
As the investigation proceeded, police arrested two more members from Umsning. They are suspected of providing logistical support and planning an IED blast at the Umsning market on October 12, 2025—an attempt that was successfully foiled by the police at the time.
A case has been registered against the individuals under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) as CBPS (ER) Case No. 01(02)2026.
State Home Minister Prestone Tynsong, while speaking to the media, confirmed the surrender and commended the member for choosing to return to the mainstream.
“The State and Central Governments always keep the doors open for peace talks. I urge all HNLC members still in the jungle to return, as the government is ready to help provide a peaceful life.
Those who surrender will receive protection and an opportunity to improve their lives,” said Tynsong.
He added that the police department would release further details once the investigation is complete, reiterating that members should not fear surrendering as the priority is to move away from illegal activities.
