AIZAWL, Dec 14 - Mizoram Home minister R Lalzirliana on Thursday handed over ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh each to the kin of two policemen killed in an ambush by Manipur-based Hmar people�s Convention (Democrats) near Zokhawthiang hamlet in Mizoram-Manipur border on March 28 last.
The Home Minister handed the ex-gratia payment to the families of Sub Inspector Zoramthara Khawlhring and driver Lalchuailova during a function organised in his office.
Three policemen including the OC were gunned down and six others injured when HPC (D) militants ambushed a convoy of Assembly Assurance Committee.
The Mizoram police launched a crackdown on HPC (D) militants and one H Malsawmkima who was believed to be the mastermind behind the ambush was gunned down in an encounter at Tieulian hamlet in Manipur on May 8, while another three militants involved in the ambush were arrested later. The police also arrested another 4 HPC (D) cadres over the past few months. Twelve militants were allegedly involved in the ambush.
Lalzirlian said that the Government of Mizoram recently received an offer from HPC(D) faction led by H Zosangbera to hold tripartite talks with Central and State Governments under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. ��We have ruled out any talks with the group unless guns and ammunition stolen or seized from Mizoram Police personnel over the past few years are first returned �, Lalzirliana said.
