Minister’s brother ‘loots’ betel leaves on gun point

Pothashang News Service: Imphal, April 26, 2018: Betel leaves transports and suppliers today alleged brother of forest and environment minister Th. Shyamkumar of looting two betel leaves loaded mini trucks by threatening with gun.

Protesting against the incident the betel leaves transporters and suppliers today staged a protest demonstration at Thangal Keithel.

Minister Shyamkumar announced ban on betel leaves in the state on April 13. But was suspended following a Manipur High Court order of April 19.

The drivers who were working under R.S. Transport Agency, identified as Waikhom Daniel Singh (42) of Wangkhei and A Shyam (38) of Langjing Achouba said they reached Sekmai Forest beat office at around 8 pm yesterday. After getting transit pass for both the vehicles they proceeded towards Imphal. On reaching Koirengei they submitted Xerox copies of the transit pass to the Forest Beat Office of Koirengei. As they reached the Godown located at Thangal Keithel MG Avenue , near city police station, two persons came in a car, and questioned them how they brought the betel leaves to the two drivers.

The driver Waikhom Daniel said both the person who questioned them how they brought the betel leaves identified themselves as Ravi, brother of minister Th. Shyamkumar, and PRO of the minister, Ranjit. The driver said they came after getting transit pass (TP) from the forest department.

Still then Ravi asked how they could come after getting TP. The driver Daniel, then showed the TP to the persons, but Ravi how could he get the TP in his name, which is not relevant. After a bit argument, the PRO then said that they can’t load down the betel leaves at the godown. When argued, the PRO allegedly told them he didn’t care the TP and said that they are taking the two vehicles. When the driver told them to give them the TP, Ravi took out a gun and threatened to shoot him.

Daneil said that he went ahead telling them to kill him if he likes.

We have been many times threatened, tortured and harassed. If these condition goes on how can we survive”, Daneil said.

The drivers and the agent of betel leaves demanded to punish the duo.

City police had reported the matter to the higher authority.