Shillong, April 16: Police in East Garo Hills have arrested 15 out of 16 accused in connection with the murder of a person with disabilities in the Songsak area, with one suspect still absconding, officials confirmed on April 15.
The case pertains to an incident on April 8 at Dagal Nachikol village, where a group of over 16 individuals allegedly entered the residence of Talseng T Sangma and carried out a violent assault. According to police, the attackers trespassed into the compound around 11 am, assaulted the victim, and issued threats to his family members.
The First Information Report, filed the following day, stated that the victim’s wife and elderly father were also attacked when they attempted to intervene, leaving them injured.
Sangma, who had a history of mental health issues, suffered critical injuries in the assault. He was initially taken to a local health facility and later referred to Civil Hospital in Williamnagar, but died while being transported.
Police have registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and confirmed that inquest and post-mortem procedures have been completed.
Officials said the FIR named 16 accused, including 13 from Dagal Nachikol and three from nearby Nangapa village. While 15 individuals have been taken into custody, efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspect. The motive behind the attack has not yet been established.
The incident has sparked concern in the region, with the victim’s family demanding swift justice. Authorities have appealed to the public to refrain from spreading rumours and to cooperate with the investigation by sharing any relevant information.
