SHILLONG, Oct 21: A suspected petrol bomb attack on a government office in Shillong on Tuesday evening added to a series of alleged arson incidents in the city, prompting authorities to strengthen security around Durga Puja pandals and nearby areas.
The latest incident occurred around 7 pm on October 20, when two unidentified persons allegedly threw a petrol bomb into the premises of the Directorate of Employment and Craftsmen Training, which houses the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society, opposite Civil Hospital on Keating Road. No injuries or damage were reported, as nearby shopkeepers reportedly extinguished the fire. Police have launched an investigation.
Eyewitnesses said the suspects arrived on a scooter without a number plate, with one of them allegedly lighting and throwing the device through the office gate before both fled.
The incident followed a suspected petrol bomb attack near a momo stall in Mawbah on the night of October 17. The object, reportedly thrown near Shiv Mandir around 9.30 pm, did not explode, but an abandoned scooter was partially burnt. No injuries were reported. East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem said police were investigating and verifying whether the object was a petrol bomb.
In another incident, unidentified persons allegedly attempted to set fire to the welcome gate of the Kench’s Trace Puja Committee in Laban early on Monday.
Following the incidents in Mawbah and Laban, the Meghalaya government reviewed security arrangements around puja venues at a meeting convened by the Chief Secretary at the request of the Central Puja Committee.
The latest incident has heightened concerns over public safety during the ongoing festivities, with police working to identify those responsible and authorities stepping up security across Shillong.
