New Delhi, Oct. 3 -- A suspected cattle-theft incident turned fatal in Matigara near Siliguri early Saturday, with two men allegedly beaten to death by mobs. Pickup van driver Shahid Akhtar was allegedly dragged out and killed after residents intercepted the vehicle near the Balason River. The van was subsequently set on fire. Three occupants of another car were also assaulted after fleeing towards Dhimal Basti; one escaped, while two were rescued and taken to North Bengal Medical College and Hospital.
Shad Mohammad, a Haryana resident, later died during treatment, while the other injured men remain hospitalised. Police said the incident spread across areas under Matigara, Bagdogra and Panighata police stations.
Four people have reportedly been arrested. Police are examining CCTV footage and questioning residents to identify those involved and establish the circumstances of the attacks. Investigators are also verifying allegations of cattle theft in Matigara, Bagdogra and Naxalbari, including claims that vehicles were being used to transport cattle.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.