‘Several CCTV recordings will have to be pieced together’: Shillong DC on petrol bomb attacks

The East Khasi Hills district administration has strengthened security across Shillong after three petrol bomb attacks were reported at Keating Road, Kenches Trace and Laitumkhrah, with police examining CCTV footage to identify those responsible.

Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal said no injuries or property damage had been reported in the incidents, while no arrests had been made so far.

“Police are investigating the incidents and examining CCTV footage to piece together the evidence and identify the culprits. As of now, no arrests have been made,” Baranwal said.

He said the alleged perpetrators were masked, making it necessary for investigators to examine multiple CCTV recordings to establish their identities.

“Several recordings will have to be pieced together to identify the culprits,” he said, adding that police were working to collect and analyse available footage.

Security has been stepped up, with additional police personnel deployed across the city, magistrates conducting rounds and night patrolling intensified, particularly during the early morning hours. The administration is also maintaining close coordination with the police to prevent further incidents and ensure public safety.

Baranwal said it was too early to determine whether the three attacks were connected or carried out separately.

“Whether the three attacks were part of a coordinated effort or were separate incidents is something that will emerge during the course of the police investigation. I would not like to speculate on that,” he said.

The Deputy Commissioner appealed to residents to remain calm and help preserve Shillong’s communal harmony and peaceful atmosphere. He assured the public that the administration was taking necessary measures to maintain law and order.

Meanwhile, Durga Puja idol immersion processions continued at Polo in Shillong on Wednesday, as devotees gathered to bid farewell to Goddess Durga following five days of celebrations.

Devotees brought idols from various puja pandals to the immersion venue, marking the conclusion of the festivities with prayers, devotional chants and traditional music.

The immersion ceremony marks the end of the annual celebrations, with devotees offering prayers for peace, prosperity and happiness before bidding farewell to the goddess until next year.

The administration’s security measures remain in focus as the city witnesses the final events of the festival amid the investigation into the three petrol bomb attacks.