Meghalaya police in East Jaintia Hills have successfully apprehended two men linked to an improvised explosive device (IED) attack that targeted a private construction firm near Shymplong village. The blast, which occurred at approximately 12:15 am on December 15, took place within the Dhar construction company campus and resulted in damage to a water tanker truck. While forensic analysis confirmed that an IED was used to carry out the assault, authorities reported that there were no injuries or fatalities resulting from the explosion.
Following a swift investigation, law enforcement identified and arrested 31-year-old Richard Suchen and 45-year-old Pynshaitbor Syih, both of whom are residents of Shymplong village. The suspects have been charged under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Explosive Substances Act. The formal case was registered at the Lumshnong Police Station on December 16 as officials continue to piece together the logistics of the early morning attack.
Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar disclosed that the investigation has pinpointed a third suspect, Smiki Tongper, as the alleged mastermind responsible for planning and executing the strike. Investigators believe Tongper coordinated the operation alongside the two arrested men and an unidentified member of the banned Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council. Tongper remains at large and is also currently wanted in a separate case at the Khliehriat Woman Police Station involving charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
A subsequent search of Tongper’s residence uncovered a significant cache of dangerous materials and tactical equipment. Police seized three rolls of safety fuse, three detonators with six empty caps, gunpowder, and 82 metal splinters. Additionally, officers recovered a country-made rifle and two Baofeng wireless handsets from the premises. District police have issued an appeal to the public for any information regarding other individuals involved in the conspiracy, promising rewards and strict confidentiality for any actionable intelligence provided.
