Police in West Khasi Hills has registered a suo moto case against the death of two coal miners from Assam in Shallang and are on the lookout for the mine owner.
West Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police, Herbert G Lyngdoh today officially confirmed the death of the coal miners. He said following newspaper reports, an enquiry was conducted by the Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Mawshynrut Sub Division.
He said that on the intervening night of February 16 and 17, Sukur Ali (35) a resident of Botiamary and Ainuddin Ali (35) of Malibari Pathar had gone to Langmar to survey the abandoned coal quarry on the instruction of the mine owner identified as Alfred Rongrin of Kyllongmathei, Shallang.
“But when the two persons entered inside the quarry both of them died inside due to Asphyxiation,” the SP added.
He said the dead bodies were immediately taken to their home by their friends without reporting the incident to the police.
“The mine owner has illegally inducing reconnaissance for prospecting illegal coal mining operation in the area without permit or license thereby violating section 4(1) of MMDR Act and the order of the Hon’ble NGT,” the SP said, adding, that it was an act of negligence and irresponsible behaviour on the part of the mine owner.
Informing that a suo moto case has been registered at Shallang police station, the SP said all efforts are being made to arrest the absconding mine owner.
