Police Clash with Villagers Amid Illegal Liquor Celebration in Bihar's Kaimur
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Patna, Feb 26 (NationPress) A tense situation emerged in the Kudra Police Station jurisdiction of Kaimur district following an alleged assault on police officers who arrived to investigate reports of an illegal liquor gathering that contravened Bihar’s prohibition regulations.
Multiple police officers sustained injuries, prompting the police to return fire, which they described as an act of self-defence.
As reported by authorities, a liquor celebration took place late Wednesday night in Kajhar Ghat village to mark the release of a man recently granted bail.
The festivities reportedly featured loud DJ music, female dancers, and celebratory gunfire, all in violation of the state's prohibition law.
Upon receiving the tip-off, the officer in charge of the Kudra Police Station, accompanied by other officers, proceeded to the village.
According to police accounts, the crowd became hostile upon their arrival, initiating stone-throwing.
In the ensuing turmoil, police personnel were allegedly fired upon.
A senior police figure stated that five officers, including the station chief, were injured due to the stone pelting.
He clarified that the police only discharged their weapons after being shot at, aiming to safeguard themselves.
One villager reportedly suffered injuries during the exchange of gunfire.
The police have confirmed that an FIR has been filed at the Kudra police station, naming 28 individuals along with 50 unidentified suspects.
Currently, 13 individuals have been apprehended concerning the incident.
The condition of the injured villager has been documented, and preliminary investigations suggest he was shot from behind; he is undergoing questioning as part of the inquiry.
Officials noted that the precise circumstances and trajectory of the gunfire will be clarified following medical and forensic evaluations.
In the aftermath, irate villagers blocked the road, accusing police of unwarranted aggression and asserting that the officers fired first.
However, police have maintained that their response was purely defensive.
Substantial police presence remains in the area to avert any further disturbances, and the situation is under close surveillance.