Guwahati: The East Jaintia Hills police have arrested 14 individuals in connection with illegal coal mining activities, including seven linked to the February 5 Thangsko tragedy that claimed 31 lives.
The seven accused—Forme Chyrmang, Shameki War, Process Phawa, Tensing Suchiang, Yoomiki Syih, Ernest Swer, and Rangsing Syienlieh (also known as Mithun), were specifically detained for their involvement in the deadly incident.
Following the tragedy, the police registered a suo-motu case at the Khliehriat police station (Case No. 14 (2) 2026), invoking provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, and the Explosive Substances Act. Key charges include Section 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) and Section 118(2) (voluntarily causing grievous hurt by dangerous means).
Overall, 62 FIRs have been filed across different police stations in the district concerning illegal coal mining, resulting in the arrest of 14 individuals so far. Police investigations have also led to the seizure of 15,224.72 metric tonnes of coal, 25.5 kg of gelatin, 74 detonators, and five vehicles, underscoring the extent of illegal coal mining operations in the district.