Shillong: Police in West Garo Hills detained several individuals with lethal weapons during intensified surveillance at a checkpoint at Aramile in Tura of Meghalaya on Monday night.According to a police statement, the search of vehicles led to the recovery of machetes, hammers, catapults, and other items suspected to be intended for use in the ongoing communal conflicts in the district. Though the police didn’t quote a number, all occupants of the vehicles were detained and interrogated. They reportedly admitted they were heading toward the plain belt area at the instigation of the ACHIK NGO group. Authorities said they are probing the possible motive and any larger conspiracy behind such movements.The district has been witnessing unrest over the issue of non-tribal participation in elections to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council. Police have strengthened security measures across West Garo Hills to prevent further violence.The district magistrate has promulgated prohibitory orders under the BNSS, 2023, and the Meghalaya Maintenance of Public Order Act, 1990, banning the carrying of arms, explosives, or any harmful objects. Activities such as organising training camps, inciting violence, damaging property, or spreading inflammatory content have also been prohibited. Exemptions apply only to essential services, govt officials on duty, and individuals authorised by the administration.The order took immediate effect and will remain in force until further notice. Meanwhile, curfew in West Garo Hills has been extended from 6am on March 18 to 6 am on March 19, with a relaxation period between 6 am and 6pm on March 18.So far, 29 suspects have been arrested in connection with the violence. Deputy chief minister in charge of home (police), Prestone Tynsong, said more arrests are likely. Police have urged the public to report suspicious activities to the nearest station or to the police control room in Tura.
