Imphal: Manipur Police has assured enhanced security for fuel retail outlets across the state amid growing extortion threats faced by petrol pump dealers.
In a statement, police said the issue was discussed at a meeting chaired by the Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order), attended by superintendents of police and representatives of the petroleum dealers’ association.
The police department assured that security arrangements at retail outlets would be reviewed and strengthened, including the vetting of all employees. Mobile police teams will also be deployed at strategic locations, while anti-extortion mechanisms will be intensified to counter threats against fuel stations.
Police said two people have already been arrested in connection with extortion attempts targeting petrol pumps.
The assurance comes after petrol pump dealers warned they may suspend operations if the government fails to act against extortion demands by the end of the week.
In a statement, the Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity (MPDF) said it had submitted a memorandum to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on December 10, highlighting serious security concerns, but alleged that no concrete action followed.
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The MPDF said dealers are facing an extremely critical situation due to extortion and bomb threats, adding that they would be left with no option but to shut down operations if authorities fail to take effective steps by December 28.
