In the Bahraich violence case, the Uttar Pradesh police shot two prime accused, identified as Sarfaraz and Talib, during an encounter on Thursday. The two men were reportedly trying to escape to Nepal when the incident occurred.
According to an official statement from the Uttar Pradesh government, the police had taken the suspects to recover the weapon used in the murder of 22-year-old Ram Gopal Mishra. Upon reaching the location, Sarfaraz and Talib opened fire on the police. In retaliation, both were shot and sustained serious injuries. The weapon involved in Mishra’s murder has since been recovered.
Bahraich Superintendent of Police (SP) Vrinda Shukla confirmed the arrests and the encounter, stating, “Five people have been arrested. Two of them, Sarfaraz and Talib, were injured during the police firing. I am here to assess their condition.”
The two injured suspects are currently receiving medical treatment for their injuries.
Background: Bahraich Violence
The violence in Bahraich erupted on October 13, 2024, after the fatal shooting of Ram Gopal Mishra during a Durga idol immersion procession. The post-mortem examination revealed that 25 to 30 pellets were found in Mishra’s body, with additional injury marks around his left eye and toenails, indicating the severity of the attack.
Following Mishra’s death, the city witnessed widespread unrest, with angry mobs torching shops and vehicles. As of now, 55 people have been arrested in connection with the violence, and 11 separate cases have been registered. The first case was filed at the Hardi police station, naming six suspects, with four unidentified individuals.
The situation in Bahraich led to a temporary suspension of mobile internet and broadband services for three days, which have now been restored. The police also issued a stern warning to prevent further unrest.
Investigation and Arrests
The investigation into the Bahraich violence is ongoing, with several key arrests made. On Wednesday, the police arrested Danish alias Shaheer Khan, one of the six individuals named in the murder case.
Uttar Pradesh police have assured the public that more stringent action will be taken to bring the perpetrators to justice and to maintain peace in the region.