Gariaband Violence: Out-on-Bail Trio Attacks Residents, Police Hurt in Clashes

Violence erupted in Dudhkaiyya village of Gariaband district on Sunday evening after three accused, recently released on bail, allegedly assaulted local residents, triggering clashes and widespread unrest, police officials said on Monday. The incident occurred under the jurisdiction of the Fingeshwar police station.

According to the police, the three accused—one of them identified as Arif—had been arrested about a year ago in connection with the alleged vandalism of an idol at a local temple. After securing bail, they were allegedly intimidating villagers and harassing witnesses linked to the case, creating tension in Dudhkaiyya and nearby villages.

Superintendent of Police Vedvrat Sirmour said tensions escalated after Arif and the two others allegedly attacked several villagers on Sunday. Earlier in the day, the accused reportedly assaulted four to six youths with iron rods, accusing them of lodging complaints against them with the police. The attack sparked anger among residents and led to clashes between two communities.

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Following the assault, enraged villagers allegedly gheraoed the houses of the accused and set them on fire. As the situation spiraled out of control, multiple vehicles were torched, and stones and bricks were hurled at police personnel who attempted to disperse the crowd and restore order. During the stone-pelting, five to six police personnel sustained injuries, officials confirmed.

Police reinforcements were rushed to the area, and all three accused involved in the assault were re-arrested. Authorities registered three separate cases in connection with the violence, arson, and attacks on police personnel. Additional forces were deployed in the village as a precautionary measure to prevent further escalation.

Inspector General of Police (Raipur Range) Amresh Mishra said the situation was now under control. “Our priority was to contain the tension in the village. I am present at the spot along with senior officers, and peace has been restored. Statements of eyewitnesses are being recorded, and further legal action will follow based on the investigation,” he said.

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