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Meghalaya Police Rescue 22 From Sohra Mob Attack, Arrest Nine Over Witchcraft Claim

Police link the attack to a boy’s superstition claim; more arrests expected.

Overview

  • A crowd of about 200 surrounded the Khliehshnong home of Ham Shangpliang around 9:30 p.m. on October 30 and allegedly threatened to burn it down.
  • Officers and local magistrates used tear gas and stun grenades to create a corridor for evacuation as the situation turned volatile.
  • Twenty-two people, including minors and guests at a memorial service, were rescued and taken to Shillong Civil Hospital for medical checks.
  • At least eight police personnel were injured during efforts to disperse the mob and secure the area.
  • Nine suspected instigators have been arrested, a case has been registered at Sohra police station, and investigators say further arrests are likely.