Shillong, Sep 29: Meghalaya today launched its Anti-Terror Squad (ATS), a dedicated unit of the state police that will focus on serious cases that threaten the peace and tranquility of the state.
Speaking to reporters, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, who is in charge of the police, said the newly formed team will focus on threats such as bomb scares and suspicious activities, ensuring that the state remains free from terror incidents.
Today saw the inauguration of the ATS office by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and the flagging off of the DFS crime scene vehicles for all 12 districts.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Davis NR Marak explained that while various police units handle different responsibilities, ranging from investigation to operations, there was a need for a specialised squad solely focused on counter-terrorism.
Marak added that the Union Ministry of Home Affairs had directed the states to create ATSs to have a dedicated force for terrorism-related matters. The squad will handle investigations, conduct operations and gather intelligence concerning potential terror threats.
The Meghalaya ATS is currently a small unit but is set to expand with additional personnel. It operates through two teams: one trained for jungle warfare and the other for urban operations.
The squad will also receive specialised training and modern equipment to effectively manage any terrorist threat in Meghalaya.
Tynsong further noted that while the ATS has sufficient manpower at present, the ongoing recruitment process in the police department will soon address any shortfall.
Later, the CM and Deputy CM held the annual review meeting with senior police officers.
As part of the programme, MEGPOL, an advanced research tool for the Meghalaya Police, and PIMS, the Personnel Information Management System for the Meghalaya Police, were launched.
Sangma and Tynsong also felicitated personnel of the state police for their concerted efforts in cracking the infamous Sohra honeymoon murder case earlier this year, as well as other officials for their success in resolving cases within a short span of time.
