Nongstoin, Feb 19: The police registered a case suo moto in connection with the recent deaths of two labourers inside a coal mine in Shallang area of West Khasi Hills and are going all-out to arrest the mine owner, Alfred Rongrin alias Pek of Kyllonmathei, Shallang, who is absconding.
After the incident was reported by the media, an investigation was conducted by the Sub Divisional Police Officer of Mawshynrut.
The officer found that Sukur Ali (35) and Ainuddin Ali (35), both from Boko, Assam, had gone to Langmar on February 16 and 17 to survey an abandoned coal quarry after being instructed by the mine owner.
But when they entered the mine, both died of asphyxiation. Immediately after the incident, the bodies were taken to their homes by their friends without reporting the incident to the police.
The mine owner had been prospecting for operations without permit, thereby violating section 4(1) of the MMDR Act and the order of the National Green Tribunal.
