TURA, OCT 23: Meghalaya police Sub Inspector (SI) Promoth Sangma was killed during heavy exchange of fire between the security force and militants in the latter camp at Songmagre village under Purakhasia, along India – Bangladesh border on Wednesday.
Fifty- year Sangma valiantly led his team and busted a militant hideout but in the process lost his life.
A befitting tribute and last respect was paid to the cop at police reserve as he was laid to rest.
Speaking at the ceremony, West Garo hills SP Bruno A. Sangma said, “His death on the line of duty will inspire us to continue our fight against insurgents in Meghalaya. We will never get demoralised”.
Meghalaya police battalion commandant Aditya Goenka said, “Promoth Sangma gravely risking his life responded bravely from the front. In the ensuing gunfire, he was fatally injured and succumbed to his injuries. The militants who were taking cover under the thick jungles and hostile terrain managed to escape”.
Songmagre village is about 55 km from Tura in West Garo Hills.
“It is an isolated location and the team was divided into different groups but unfortunately Sangma lost his life”, Goenka said. “We are not sure which outfit was taking shelter at the village but the area is frequented by AMEF and ASAK outfits”, he added.
Police said the team left for the spot at 6:30 pm on Wednesday after getting information that a group of six to seven militants were hiding in the area.
The brave SI was leading a team from Tura, Dalu and Purakhasia, which included Special Operation Team (SOT) and Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) commandos.
He was enlisted as battalion constable on September 1, 1983 at 1st Meghalaya battalion, Shillong. In 1994, he underwent commando course at NSG training centre at Manesar, Haryana.
He was promoted as lance naike on February 18, 1988. “His dedication led to his next promotion as Havildar and subsequent promotion as Sub-Inspector in 2007”, said Goenka. In his 31 year of service, he was awarded 36 money rewards, one commendation and the prestigious Governor Police medal this year.
West Garo Hills SP Mukesh Singh had recently recommended his name for the President’s Police Medal for his distinguished service and his outstanding work.
“He will always be remembered as a great police officer distinguished by his many awards. His work leaves an indelible imprint in the police department. He was an outstanding and courageous officer, an inspiring and motivating colleague and senior”, said Goenka.
He leaves behind his wife, Manju Sangma, three sons and a daughter. – From Our Correspondent
We salute him….may God rest his soul.
May his departed Soul Rest in Peace…