By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Feb 28: Meghalaya Director General of Police (DGP) Idashisha Nongrang has revealed that the Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) is increasingly using social media platforms to recruit members by luring them with promises of high salaries and community service.
The DGP’s statement follows the recent surrender of HNLC area commander Samuel Wahlang Pahsyntiew. During interrogation, it was revealed that the outfit typically requires potential recruits to submit their EPIC card details before induction.
Nongrang noted that while two individuals, Banjop and Donbok, were recently arrested from Umsning for their involvement with the group, most other recruitment attempts have been limited to online communication. Preliminary investigations indicate that the HNLC has contacted youth from various parts of the Khasi-Jaintia region, though there is no confirmed data on how many have successfully crossed into Bangladesh.
Urging the youth to be cautious, the DGP advised against being misled by lucrative offers, citing the examples of those who surrendered after short stints with the outfit.
Addressing departmental challenges, Nongrang admitted to a significant manpower shortage in the Meghalaya Police. While 2,800 new personnel are set to be inducted in March, she clarified that it will take nine to ten months of basic training before they can be deployed.
On the issue of illegal coal mining, the DGP declined to comment extensively as the matter is sub-judice. She, however, confirmed that police teams continue to conduct raids, reporting a seizure of approximately 62 MT of illegal coal on Friday alone.
