Meghalaya: HNLC extortion plot busted, two arrested in Ri-Bhoi

CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: In a major crackdown on extortion activities linked to the banned Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC), Ri-Bhoi police arrested two suspected cadres following a meticulously planned counter-insurgency operation. The drive was launched based on “credible information” that the proscribed outfit was attempting to extort large sums of money from local businessmen and government officials by issuing violent threats.

During the operation conducted on Thursday, one suspected cadre, Pyndapbok Makri, was apprehended at Lad Quinine while allegedly accepting extortion money. “Based on his interrogation and further investigation, another suspected HNLC cadre, Lary Pynkmen Nongshli, was arrested from Umtyra by a team of East Jaintia Hills Police,” a police official confirmed.

A case has been registered, and investigations are ongoing.

Sources within the department revealed that anti-national elements based in Bangladesh and linked to the HNLC have been sending WhatsApp-based demand notes to Khasi businessmen and government officials. “They threaten their targets and their families with murder and other physical harm. Once the demands are made, they send overground workers from Meghalaya to collect the extorted money,” the official said.

“These youths fall into their trap, viewing it as an easy way to make quick money. But when arrested, they suffer the consequences for a lifetime—while those based in Bangladesh continue to enjoy their freedom,” police added.

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