Panic gripped the office of the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) on Monday afternoon after unidentified miscreants hurled two petrol bombs at the premises while officials and staff were inside the building.
The incident occurred between 12:00 PM and 12:30 PM on August 3, sending shockwaves through the area and raising serious concerns over the security of government offices in the state.
Speaking to the media, Dr. George Hagi Chyrmang, Member Secretary of the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board, said two masked individuals arrived at the office and threw the petrol bombs before fleeing the scene.
Following the attack, officials immediately informed Laitumkhrah Police Station. Police personnel, along with the Forensic Crime Scene Unit, rushed to the spot to secure the area, collect evidence and begin an investigation.
According to preliminary information gathered from nearby residents, the two suspects had arrived on a scooter. They reportedly entered the office compound, hurled the petrol bombs and escaped immediately after carrying out the attack.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported despite the attack taking place during office hours when several employees were present inside the building.
When asked whether the incident could be linked to the public hearing conducted by Shree Cement Pvt. Ltd. at Lum Syrman, East Jaintia Hills, on July 31, Dr. Chyrmang said it would be premature to draw any conclusions as the police investigation is still underway.
Authorities are now examining all possible angles, including the motive behind the attack, while efforts are underway to identify and trace the perpetrators.
