Kolkata Court Hands Down Eight-Year Sentence to Two Snatchers in Violent Attack on Morning Walkers
A city sessions court in Kolkata has delivered a stern verdict, sentencing two individuals to eight years of rigorous imprisonment for a violent snatching incident that left three morning walkers injured. The convicts, identified as Md Imran, also known as Totla, and Sk Sameer Hossain, alias Saboo, both aged 33, were found guilty of assaulting the victims and stealing mobile phones and cash on July 14, 2021.
Details of the Crime and Legal Proceedings
The attack occurred near Fort William, where the duo targeted three morning walkers. They snatched three mobile phones and approximately Rs 4,500 in cash. During the assault, one victim sustained serious injuries after being attacked with a knife and the butt of a firearm, while the other two were threatened at gunpoint. The swift police response led to the arrest of both accused on the same day from the Entally and Beniapukur areas.
The court imposed a fine of Rs 10,000 on each convict, holding them guilty under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and provisions of the Arms Act. Hossain faced additional charges under the Arms Act for allegedly using a firearm to threaten two of the victims. A charge sheet was filed within 54 days, supported by evidence including victim statements, eyewitness accounts from other morning walkers, CCTV footage, and technical data.
Legal Challenges and Arrests
During the legal proceedings, Hossain was granted bail by a sessions court in 2022. However, the Calcutta High Court later rejected this relief, and the Supreme Court upheld the rejection. Hossain fled to Mumbai but was subsequently arrested by the Detective Department with assistance from Mumbai Police, ensuring his presence for the trial.
Impact on Local Policing and Security Measures
This case significantly influenced policing strategies in the area, particularly around Maidan during morning hours. In response to the incident, authorities increased CCTV monitoring, stepped up patrolling, and deployed PCR vans to deter similar crimes. Jagmohan Bagri of the Maidan Morning Walkers Association expressed satisfaction with the conviction but highlighted concerns about ongoing security. "A massive security ring was thrown after that incident. Over time, that vigilance has slackened," he remarked, calling for sustained efforts to improve safety for walkers.
The verdict underscores the judiciary's commitment to addressing violent crimes and serves as a deterrent to potential offenders, while also prompting a reevaluation of security protocols in public spaces.
