Bihar: Man shot dead in Sitamarhi, protests erupt and police vehicles vandalised
A man was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Bihar’s Sitamarhi district on Saturday morning, triggering angry protests during which several police vehicles were vandalised, officials said.
The victim, identified as Baidyanath Mahato, was attacked in Ketharia village. Police said he suffered multiple gunshot wounds and died in the incident. His body has been sent for post-mortem examination.
Local residents alleged that Mahato had previously provided information to police that resulted in the arrest of a member of a coal-smuggling gang. They suspect the gang member or his associates could be behind the killing, although police have not confirmed the allegation and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the murder.
Following the killing, angry villagers took to the streets demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible. The protesters allegedly pelted stones at police personnel, while around half a dozen police vehicles were vandalised, officials said.
Recent reports indicate that Mahato had also been targeted in a firing incident at his residence on August 28, with villagers subsequently protesting over the alleged delay in arrests.
Police said the investigation into Saturday’s shooting is underway. The Sitamarhi district administration currently lists Amit Ranjan as the Superintendent of Police.
