Manoj Mishra at Pelawal outpost in Hazaribagh on Sunday. Picture by Vishvendu Jaipuriar

Hazaribagh, Nov. 14: Zonal inspector general of police Manoj Mishra hinted at strict action against those involved in the attack on Pelawal outpost yesterday while visiting the spot today.

A mob of 2,000 had attacked the outpost yesterday morning and had torched DSP Naushad Alam’s vehicle along with two bikes, besides injuring five policemen.

The members of the Muslim community had complained to the police about loudspeaker use during Chhath celebrations which coincided with the time for namaaz on Friday. They attacked the outpost after they felt that their complaints were not being addressed by the police force.

“Investigations are on and we will not hesitate to impose the national security act as well as crime control act on the accused found guilty,” said Mishra.

He also instructed DIG North Chotanagpur M.S. Bhatia to review similar cases which have taken place in the region in the last six months.

Mishra also said that he would ensure a strong intelligence network to prevent such incidents in future, adding that forces have been deployed in sensitive areas of the town.

Mishra spoke to members of the Muslim community as well at Pelawal outpost.

He urged them not to give shelter to anti social elements.

“If you encourage them they will shatter the peace of society which will harm both the communities,” he said.

Superintendent of police Pankaj Kamboj said three FIRs have been lodged. He said the police know who had instigated the crowd to attack and 14 people have been arrested and the situation was now under control.

“We are not going to spare the culprits this time,” Kamboj said.