What actually led to the burning of 15 trucks of Star Cement in East Jaintia Hills

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 19, 2025

In the heat of the moment, 15 trucks belonging to Star Cement Private Limited in Lumshnong were set ablaze by a furious mob on May 18 after a tragic incident in which a local resident was fatally run over by one of the company’s trucks.

According to police, prior to the incident a road traffic accident (RTA) occurred near Wahiajer village, NH-06 between one truck of Star Cement and a Pick-up truck. The Star Cement truck driven by a local, reportedly, fled the scene after the collision. The Pick-up truck, along with others pursued the cement truck up to the Star Cement premises.

Police said that the Pick-up driver who was also a local, climbed onto the said Star Cement truck and assaulted the driver and in an attempt to flee or drive forward, the cement truck ran over the Pick-up driver, who died on the spot.

Police said on receipt of information of the incident, approximately 300 individuals armed with daos and other weapons from nearby locality, gathered at the Star Cement compound and destroyed the sentry post, CCTV equipment, and attacked the Security Guard.

Police said the agitated crowd blocked the removal of the deceased’s body, which was later managed and sent to Civil Hospital, Khliehriat.

Police said that within few minutes, the said mob managed to set 14-15 trucks ablaze in the parking lot and in other premises of Star Cement.

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Police said that immediately, fire tenders were requisitioned, but the said mob started attacking the Star Cement fire brigade personnel too and attempted to damage the fire tender.

Police said in the process, police attempted to stop the crowd from burning down the fire tender but the mob attacked police personnel who were trying to control the situation and protect life and property.

Police said that on the arrival of additional force, the situation was brought under control and the mob dispersed accordingly, and the fire was doused off.

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Police said that additional Police forces have been stationed at Star Cement and administrative officers are on high alert to prevent further escalation.