Ballia District Witnesses Violent Murder and Police Encounter
In a shocking incident in Ballia district, a 40-year-old man was brutally stabbed to death at a country liquor shop, leading to a dramatic police encounter and the arrest of four individuals. The events unfolded over the weekend, highlighting escalating tensions in the area.
Fatal Stabbing at Country Liquor Shop
The victim, identified as Satya Prakash from Gurugujpur, was attacked with a knife by four persons at a country liquor shop located in the Sawra area under the jurisdiction of the Rasra police station. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon, stemming from a dispute that turned violent. Following the murder, Satya Prakash's brother, Omprakash, filed a formal complaint, prompting the Rasra police to lodge an FIR against the accused, including Raj Singh alias Raja and Sundaram Singh alias Satya.
Public Outrage and Road Blockade
Angered by the killing, family members and villagers gathered to protest, blocking the Ballia-Azamgarh road at Sawara Chatti. They staged a demonstration for over two hours, demanding justice for the victim. Police later intervened to clear the jam and restore normal traffic flow, but the incident underscored the community's distress over the crime.
Police Response and Encounter
Upon receiving information about the murder, Ballia ASP (North) Dinesh Kumar Shukla initiated a massive checking drive across the district. In the early hours of Sunday, around 2:20 am, the Special Operations Group (SOG) intercepted the murder accused on Nawapur Mahatwar Road. When signaled to stop, two motorcycle-borne individuals attempted to flee after opening fire at the police team.
In retaliatory action, the SOG engaged in an exchange of fire, resulting in two accused—Sundaram Singh and Raja Singh—suffering bullet injuries in the leg. They were promptly arrested, along with their two aides, Anuj Singh and Ajay Kharwar from Mau, who arrived later. The injured duo was rushed to the district hospital for medical treatment.
Recovery of Weapons
During the arrest, police recovered three country-made pistols and cartridges from the accused, indicating the severity of the threat posed. This recovery has raised concerns about illegal firearms in the region and the potential for further violence.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the murder and the subsequent encounter. The case has drawn attention to law enforcement challenges in rural areas and the need for swift action to curb such crimes. The arrest of all four accused within hours of the murder demonstrates police vigilance, but questions remain about the underlying disputes that led to the fatal stabbing.
