One of the vehicles damaged during the pre-poll violence reported in Mangmetong village on the morning of April 6. (Photo Courtesy: Social Media)
67 named in FIR; 12 vehicles, 3 houses damaged; guns, bombs recovered
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | April 6
Ahead of the bye-election to the 28 Koridang (ST) Assembly Constituency, pre-poll violence was reported in Mangmetong village on the morning of April 6.
According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mokokchung, Vesupra Kezo, police received information around 7:00–8:00 am that an announcement had been made in the village, calling upon youths to gather amid reports of “outsiders” being present.
The situation escalated into vandalism and violence, with an FIR reporting damage to at least 12 vehicles belonging to supporters of an Independent candidate, along with damage to two to three houses. Two persons were also reportedly assaulted.
“As per the FIR, 67 people have been named, including members of the Mangmetong Village Council. When police reached, the youths had fled, many escaping into the jungle,” the SSP said.
During search operations, police recovered two 12-bore firearms from a house, along with ammunition. “We also recovered two cartridges and two crude bombs found on the road,” he added.
One individual has been arrested so far in connection with the Mangmetong incident. “He is a BJP supporter and was injured while trying to run away,” Kezo said.
A case has been registered for destruction of property, criminal intimidation, and house trespass, based on a complaint filed by Independent candidate Imchatoba Imchen.
