Shillong, Jan 29: A poster allegedly issued by the terror group ISIS, warning members of the Garo community to vacate their land in Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district, has been found in Tura, prompting a police probe.

The poster, written in English and signed by one Aminur Islam, threatens Garos residing in areas including Phubari, Rajabala, Tikrikilla, Sesla, Garobadha, and Turisori to leave their plots before 2027 or face unspecified consequences.

A senior police officer said, “We are investigating the poster’s origin and the identity of those behind it, including whether the ISIS reference is intended to mislead and create panic.” A formal case has been registered, and a thorough investigation is underway.

State minister Marcuise Marak condemned the threat, calling it unacceptable and aimed at spreading fear and disrupting communal harmony. “The police have taken cognisance, and we are treating this seriously,” he added.

The incident comes shortly after the lynching of environmental activist Dilseng M. Sangma earlier this month in Rajabala. Sangma, associated with a Garo tribal organisation, was allegedly attacked while inspecting an illegal stone quarry. West Garo Hills Superintendent of Police Abraham T. Sangma had earlier confirmed that NGO members verifying quarrying complaints were assaulted at the site. The state government has ordered strict action against illegal quarries.

Authorities have deployed additional security in sensitive areas and urged the public to maintain peace.