SHILLONG, JUL 15 (AGENCIES): A brief bomb scare disrupted normal life in the heart of Shillong today after an abandoned bag and trolley were spotted near the OB Mall parking area at Khyndailad, reports Newmai News Network.
The alarm was raised around 11.30 am when people noticed the luggage lying unattended. Word spread quickly, triggering panic among shoppers in the busy commercial area.
Police rushed to the spot, sealed off the parking area and blocked all vehicles coming from IGP towards Khyndailad.
The cordon triggered heavy traffic congestion across the city centre during peak hours.
A bomb disposal team was called in. However, before it arrived, the owner turned up at around 12.30 pm to claim the items.
Police said the man had left the trolley and bag while heading to the MUDA Complex for work and had forgotten to collect them.
After verifying his identity and statement, police cleared the area and reopened the road for traffic.
The crowd, which had gathered in anxiety, heaved a sigh of relief after the owner was identified.
No suspicious material was found. Police have appealed to the public to report unattended baggage immediately and avoid leaving belongings in public places.
