The State police on Monday warned stern action against anybody found involved in illegal activities inside and around the graveyard and forest areas at Lawmali here.
A joint meeting was held at the Police Reserve Conference Hall between the state police and the headmen and dorbar members of Riatsamthiah, Wahingdoh, Jaiaw Shyiap, Jaiaw Mihngi and Mawlai Phudmuri on the rampant illegal activities at Lawmali, which has become a matter of utmost concern for the localities adjacent to Lawmali.
In a statement, SP (City) Vivek Syiem said that the meeting has resolved that such notorious activities of loitering inside the forests of Lawmali will not be allowed and anyone found involved in activities of drug peddling or consumption of drugs and alcohol would be arrested and legal action taken.
“With a view to prevent entry at night time by such anti-social elements in the area which is under the forest department, matters on fencing and construction of a gate will be taken up with the Forest Department,” he said.
Syiem said other measures such as booking those involved in illegal activities at night in and around the area or found consuming alcohol or drugs inside vehicles by the roadside shall be booked under Section 110 of Meghalaya Police Act and the NDPS Act, as the case may be.
He said the police would also like to express their appreciation to the members of the above Durbars Shnongs for their initiative to jointly tackle the problem.
Also, measures to curb the menace of drug abuse and trafficking in Shillong City were discussed with many suggestions tendered by the participants, he added.