SHILLONG, FEB 5: An explosion at an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district has claimed 18 lives, with rescue teams working to locate survivors.
The incident occurred at Mynsyngat, Thangsko area, under Umpleng Police Outpost, on Thursday (February 5).
“Upon verification, it was confirmed that an explosion had taken place inside an illegal coal mine, and several persons were suspected to be trapped,” Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar said.
“Rescue and disaster response operations were initiated without delay. During the course of the rescue operation, a total of 18 dead bodies have been recovered from the site of the explosion,” he added.
One injured person was rescued and taken to a hospital in Shillong for treatment.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Special Rescue Team (SRT) are actively engaged at the site, and rescue and recovery efforts are continuing.
The SP informed that a suo-motu FIR has been registered, and investigation is underway.
“In connection with the incident Suo-motu FIR has been registered vide Khliehriat PS case no 14/2026 U/s 105/118(2)/3(5) BNS R/W section 21/21(1) MMDR Act R/W section 3 Explosives Substances Act and investigation in on,” he said.
“If any person has any information about other miscreants involved in this illegal act, they are requested to inform the local Police Station immediately. Their identity shall be kept secret and suitable reward shall be given,” the SP appealed.
Also Read: Meghalaya CM orders probe into East Jaintia Hills coal mine tragedy
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