NONGPOH, March 26: Chaos erupted in the serene jungles of Ranibari village in Ri-Bhoi District as armed miscreants engaged in a fierce clash with Ri-Bhoi Police on Tuesday.
At approximately 9:30 am, Ri-Bhoi Police received distressing reports of armed individuals lurking near the Ranibari forest. Acting swiftly, the in-charge of Rani Border outpost mobilised his team and rushed to the scene.
Upon arrival, the police encountered a volley of bullets as the miscreants opened fire indiscriminately. Despite the grave danger, the police exercised utmost restraint and refrained from retaliatory measures due to the presence of innocent bystanders, including children and women.
In a daring pursuit, law enforcement officers chased the assailants deep into the forest.
Following an intense search operation, two suspects identified as Ajit Rabha (18) and Kavita Rabha (18) were apprehended. Initial investigations unveiled their affiliation with a notorious gang notorious for pilfering Sal trees, motorcycles, and betel nuts.
Further revelations implicated Rudra Rabha, step-father of Ajit Rabha, as the mastermind behind the criminal syndicate. During a subsequent raid at Ajit Rabha’s residence, authorities seized a cache of weapons, including a homemade SBML firearm along with ammunition.
“Law enforcement agencies continue their combing operations in the region, leaving no stone unturned to locate and neutralise the remaining miscreants,” police said, adding that a case has been registered at Khanapara police station, invoking appropriate sections of the law to ensure swift and decisive action against the perpetrators.
