The Meghalaya government today suspended the police personnel who allegedly abandoned their service weapons amid yesterday's violence in Shillong. The arms were picked up by some people who allegedly carried out arson attacks in the state capital.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma condemned the incident saying police personnel's arms and weapons were as good as parts of their body.
"What happened yesterday was unacceptable, whether on the police personnel's part or that of the individuals who had taken them. We are very firm on this and will take firm action on this," Chief Minister Sangma said.
A video of a group of masked people torching police vehicles has emerged since yesterday's violence. Some of the persons involved were reportedly seen carrying the cops' weapons even as they drove the automobiles around the city.
It was mayhem in Shillong on Sunday over last week's death of a former rebel leader, leading to the declaration of a two-day curfew. The eruption followed the funeral of Cherishstarfield Thangkhiew, who was killed last Thursday during a police raid at his residence.
Hundreds of people, in black clothes and carrying black flags, took part in the funeral procession on Sunday, which later gave way to the violence.
As the turmoil spread, some persons snatched police personnel's service weapons -- they are still missing.
Mr Sangma asked all those involved to immediately return the arms and ammunition. He did not reveal how many policemen were suspended but said four personnel were involved, of whom one fled with his weapon and three left them behind.
Referring to the two bombs hurled at his residence, Chief Minister Sangma said such acts were "meaningless".
"My appeal to all citizens of the state, especially those involved…this is not the way forward. I appeal to everyone that they must remain peaceful and resolve issues in a proper manner. Violence is not the way forward. We condemn it and will find who is responsible for it," he said.
Meghalaya To Set Up More Outposts Along Assam Border, Internet Ban Lifted Heavy Security, Prohibitory Orders Continue At Clash Site On Assam-Meghalaya Border Police Vehicles Torched, Petrol Bombs Used In Fresh Violence In Shillong Canadian Diplomat Summoned After Allegations Against Amit Shah By Minister India A "Cyber Adversary", Says Trudeau Government, New Delhi Shreds Claim 8 Mobiles, 20 SIMs, 6 Fake Names: Delhi Doctor Murder Accused's Exit Plan American Bar And Grill Chain TGI Fridays Files For Bankruptcy "Shows Mentality": Shaina NC On Sanjay Raut Defending Derogatory Remark Watch: Amy Jackson Celebrates Diwali By Enjoying Pani Puri In Dubai Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world.