After a long interval, again coal and scrap mafia have become active in the industrial and coal hub in the Jharsuguda-Brajarajnagar region. They have been found involved in a series of firing incidents in recent past, thus unleashing a reign of terror in the locality.
On March 27 last, a firing incident took place at Rampur Colliery’s Hatli Chowk wine shop in which the police arrested seven persons. Some noted anti-socials having connection with the coal smugglers were arrested.
They were identified as Sonu Ghosh, Praful Chhatri (Councilor-9), Amit Ghosh, Amit Singh, Arvind Yadav, Tinku Singh and Tinku Sahis. Police believe they have developed a strong network involving different kinds of people and become millionaires by selling coal and scrap.
Notably, Sonu Ghosh was arrested in Arjun Singh murder case earlier and was acquitted a few months back. Similarly, Praful Chhatri was involved in a firing case too. Also a few months ago, there was a firing incident at the house of BJD vice president Rabi Singh and another at laikera, in which these anti-socials were believed to be involved.
When contacted, Jharsuguda SP Dillip Deo said, “We are keeping a close watch on the criminals and hopefully, we will arrest them soon,” adding that a few kingpins in the firing incidents had been arrested.
