SHILLONG — The allegations over money collection from trucks have moved from a viral video to a departmental inquiry, with four East Khasi Hills police personnel suspended and the Officer-in-Charge of Diengpasoh Police Station transferred.
The action followed videos circulated by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), which alleged that police personnel were collecting money from heavy vehicles at Mawkhanu and Thangshalai.
A preliminary enquiry ordered by East Khasi Hills SP Vivek Syiem was led by City SP Dangsang Khyrim along with senior police officers.
Police said personnel from Diengpasoh Police Station had been deployed at a temporary check post at Mawkhanu for naka checking and highway security. However, the allegations of illegal collection have prompted a wider departmental enquiry.
One Head Constable and three Unarmed Branch Constables have been placed under suspension pending the inquiry. The Diengpasoh OIC has also been transferred. A special police team has been sent to the two locations for further verification, while the temporary sheds at Mawkhanu and Thangshalai have been dismantled.
The police said no money was found with personnel during the preliminary verification at either location, but stressed that this alone does not conclusively establish or disprove the allegations.
The department has also issued a direct warning to truck drivers and vehicle owners: do not make any payment to police personnel on the highway. Any demand for money or harassment can be reported through 112 or the Shillong Police Control Room.
