Kolkata Police Attacked by Mob During Rescue Operation of Murder Accused in Metiabruz
In a shocking incident of mob violence, police officers from the Metiabruz Police Station in Kolkata were assaulted by a large crowd while attempting to rescue a murder accused who was out on bail. The attack, which occurred on Thursday, resulted in injuries to three police personnel and the vandalism of an officer's two-wheeler.
Details of the Violent Confrontation
According to a written complaint filed by Sub-Inspector Suraj Kumar, aged 26, the incident unfolded near Haldarpara in the Metiabruz area between 1:10 PM and 1:50 PM. Police received information about a disturbance at Haldarpara around 1:10 PM, prompting Kumar and other officers to rush to the spot. Upon arrival, they encountered a gathering of approximately 60 to 80 people who were strongly agitating and shouting against Sk Shakil Ahmed, a 26-year-old resident of Haldarpara Lane.
Ahmed is an FIR-named accused in a murder case registered at Metiabruz Police Station on January 27, 2024, and is currently out on court bail. The complaint states that Ahmed had visited his paternal house in Haldarpara around 12:30 PM and attended afternoon prayers. Locals quickly gathered at the location, demanding that Ahmed be handed over to them.
Escalation of Violence and Injuries
Police officers requested the crowd to disperse peacefully, but the locals refused to comply. As the situation grew tense, the police decided to take Ahmed to the police station for his safety around 1:50 PM. During the rescue operation, some members of the mob allegedly assaulted Ahmed with fists, blows, and kicks. In the ensuing violence, Sub-Inspector Suraj Kumar was injured and had to be hospitalized. His parked two-wheeler near Ahmed's residence was also damaged by the mob.
Two other police personnel sustained injuries during the incident, highlighting the severity of the attack. The Metiabruz Police Station has registered a case based on Kumar's complaint and has seized CCTV footage from the area to investigate the matter further.
Broader Implications for Law and Order
This incident raises serious concerns about public safety and law enforcement challenges in Kolkata. The attack on police officers while performing their duty underscores the need for enhanced security measures and community cooperation. Authorities are likely to review protocols for handling such volatile situations to prevent future occurrences.
The case continues to be under investigation, with police working to identify and apprehend those responsible for the assault and vandalism.
