By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong on Thursday urged the public to immediately inform authorities of any extortion messages sent in the name of the banned HNLC. Tynsong, who is also the Home (Police) in-charge, stressed that these threats must not be ignored.
He confirmed the government has discussed the issue, noting that cases should be reported to police stations, outposts, or district offices immediately.
Tynsong said the government’s priority is to ensure safety and allow normal business activities to continue without fear. He added that police action follows once complaints or information are formally submitted.
On concerns about why police do not always take proactive action, he said authorities can only act when cases are reported, as they may otherwise remain unaware of threats received by individuals.
He urged people not to panic over threats from militant or criminal groups and said strict action would be taken against anyone involved in such activities.
This comes after reports that the banned HNLC has allegedly been sending WhatsApp messages to traders in Shillong, demanding money and referring to it as “income tax”.
The messages are said to include deadlines for payment along with warnings of consequences for non-compliance.
Police official Vivek Syiem said no FIR has been registered so far in the matter, though he confirmed that the police are aware of the circulating WhatsApp messages.