By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 31: A violent mob attack that led to the destruction of at least 15 trucks and damage to security infrastructure at Star Cement’s premises in East Jaintia Hills may be tied to rising drug addiction and growing frustration among substance abuse victims in the region.
A group of journalists recently visited the truck yard at the Star Cement facility to investigate the underlying causes of the violence. During interactions on-site, it was revealed that the incident stemmed from broader social issues, particularly the alarming rise in substance abuse in the area.
Locals disclosed that some individuals battling addiction have been caught stealing scrap materials and equipment from the cement plant to fund their habits.
One trucker, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed concerns about safety. “We ferry goods for anyone who hires us, but transporting Star Cement products now feels like a death sentence. If we’re attacked on the road, where do we go? We fear for our lives,” he said.
On the other hand, officials from Star Cement voiced serious concern over the worsening security situation. “If such violence continues, we may be forced to shut down and relocate. We already have a signed MoU with a neighbouring state,” one company official stated.
East Jaintia Hills Deputy Commissioner Shivansh Awasthi and Superintendent of Police Giri Prasad Raju confirmed that an investigation into the incident is under way.
“We’ve identified the culprits and arrests will be made soon. The drug abuse problem here is real and growing,” the SP said.
He further informed that they are currently aware of 15-20 individuals struggling with addiction, though the actual number is suspected to be higher. “Unfortunately, the law limits our ability to detain them for long since they are victims too,” Prasad noted.
The violent episode reportedly began after a Star Cement truck collided with a pick-up vehicle on NH-06 near Wahiajer village. The cement truck, driven by a local, fled the scene. The pick-up truck, joined by others, gave chase and followed it into the Star Cement compound.
According to reports, the pick-up driver, who is also a local, climbed onto the cement truck and assaulted the driver. In the ensuing scuffle, the cement truck moved forward, tragically running over the pick-up driver, who died instantly.
The fatal incident triggered a swift and violent response. Within minutes, nearly 300 people from surrounding areas—many armed with machetes and other weapons—gathered at the plant. The mob vandalised the sentry post, damaged CCTV systems, assaulted a security guard and blocked the removal of the deceased’s body.
Police from Lumshnong Station, supported by additional forces, arrived to contain the situation. Despite their efforts, the mob set fire to 14-15 trucks parked within the premises, further escalating the chaos.