In a swift response to the vandalism of two police vehicles, Tripura police apprehended five individuals on Friday. The incident occurred in the Chelikhola area of Bishalgarh, following a tragic road accident that claimed the life of a motorcyclist.
Tragedy struck on Thursday night, when a speeding vehicle, allegedly carrying smuggled sugar, collided with a motorcycle in Chelikhola. The impact resulted in the death of the rider, Bishnu Lodh, and left his pillion rider, Bijay Das, injured. Bijay Das was rushed to GBP Hospital in Agartala for medical attention.
News of Bishnu Lodh’s demise spread rapidly, and enraged villagers took to the streets. They blocked the road, demanding justice for the victim and stricter measures against sugar smuggling. As tensions escalated, some protestors turned violent, leading to the destruction of two police vehicles parked nearby.
Local law enforcement swiftly intervened. SDPO Bishalgarh Panna Lal Sen and OC Rana Chatterjee, along with their team, arrived at the scene. Attempting to disperse the crowd, they resorted to a lathi-charge. However, the situation intensified as protestors retaliated by pelting stones at the officers.
Recognizing the need for additional forces, Additional SP Rajib Sutradhar was called in. Together, they managed to disperse the mob and restore order.
The arrested individuals – Rakesh Barman, Yusuf Nabi, Gopal Banik, Abhijit Barman, and Dipankar Barman – were promptly taken into custody.
Local MLA Sushanta Deb visited the site and expressed concern over the incident. He demanded strict action against sugar smuggling networks and urged authorities to hold those responsible for attacking the police vehicles accountable.
The arrested individuals remain in judicial custody until July 3rd, awaiting further legal proceedings.
(Tripura, Tripura News)