Youth shot by members of own group: DIG
Source: Chronicle News Service

Thoubal, December 17 2024: Informing that Heirok police has registered a case and investigations underway in connection with the death of a PREPAK cadre and the arrest of six others along with arms during an encounter with Thoubal police commandos on December 4, DIG Range-II Haobijam Jogeshchandra contended that forensic findings suggest the cadre was shot by members of his own group.

Addressing media persons at the Thoubal SP's conference hall, here, on Tuesday, Jogeschan-dra recounted that based on a tip-off, Thoubal district police went to Salungpham area, where they signalled an Alto car and an A-Star car to halt for checking.

However, the police team came under fire from occupants of one of the cars.

In response, the police fired in the air and detained six persons, recovered arms from their possession while an individual who suffered bullet wounds was rushed to Raj Medicity, but succumbed to injuries.

Stating that the police are here to protect life and properties, Jogeshchandra assured, and expressed resentment that some people are trying to portray the police in poor light.

Meanwhile, a statement from police said that preliminary forensic findings suggest the boy's death was caused by gunfire from members of a rival underground group, not from law enforcement personnel.

The firing took place from a vehicle, identified as an A-star car, which was located behind the scene.

It also said that demand for the release or bail of arrested UGs shall be decided by the court of law and police have no say on the matter.

It also clarified that that the UG cadres had travelled from Kakching Khunou with the intention of extorting money in Salungpham area.

The group was not acting as village volunteers but as UGs.

They were responsible for firing on the Thoubal CDO team.

In response to growing scepticism surrounding the encounter, the statement said that the matter could be handed over to an independent agency, such as the CBI or NIA, if there were any doubts regarding the investigation.

Providing background information on the deceased, the statement also said that he had not attended school since June 2024, and his family had filed a missing person report on August 13, 2024 .

He had joined PREPAK as a cadre and was residing in Kakching Khunou.

The statement also appealed not to circulate false information as many vested interests are getting involved.

Comment