Shillong, Nov 4: In the wake of the arrest made by the East Khasi Hills Police on October 31, the Ri Bhoi Police has also taken action by filing a suo-moto case against Bless Dkhar, a leader of the Hynniewtrep National Youth Front (HNYF). He stands accused of extorting money from trucks operating on the Umiam-Damsite Bridge.
According to a statement from Ri Bhoi’s Superintendent of Police, Giri Prasad, the suo-moto was filed on Friday after Dkhar’s arrest from Pokhseh in Shillong by East Khasi Police on October 31, 2023.
SP Prasad clarified that while no formal complaints were lodged by truck drivers or owners against Dkhar, a thorough investigation into the matter will be conducted by the police.
Dkhar was arrest based on a voice note in circulation where he was allegedly heard negotiating with an individual identified as a trader. In the recording, Dkhar is allegedly heard discussing charging Rs. 1500 per truck, whether private or belonging to the Food Corporation of India (FCI), for transportation across the Umiam-Damsite Bridge.
After the voice note gained traction online, the East Khasi Police initiated a suo moto case against the HNYF leader, eventually apprehending him from his residence in Pokhseh, Shillong.
In response, the HNYF’s East Khasi Hills unit has distanced itself from Dkhar, expressing surprise at the unprecedented allegations against their organization.
Sanbor Rapsang, the Disciplinary Secretary of HNYF East Khasi Hills, stated, “We are deeply concerned as we did not authorize anyone to collect money from the trucks.” He announced that the Central Executive Committee (CEC) would soon convene to address this critical issue.
Rapsang also confirmed that until the CEC reaches a decision, the position of president of HNYF East Khasi Hills will remain vacant.
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