Kolkata, October 3, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
A youth was allegedly lynched and another critically injured after a mob attacked them on suspicion of cow theft in West Bengal’s Matigara area in the early hours of Saturday, police said. Four people have been arrested in connection with the incident, while efforts are underway to identify and apprehend others allegedly involved in the assault and subsequent vandalism.
The incident took place near the banks of the Balasan River in the Tarabari area, under Matigara police station in north Bengal.
According to police, a group of youths was travelling in a car when local residents noticed the vehicle and grew suspicious of its occupants, suspecting them of involvement in cattle thefts reported in the area.
The residents allegedly chased the vehicle and managed to apprehend two youths, while the others reportedly escaped. Two vehicles were also seized by the locals.
The situation soon escalated, with a mob allegedly assaulting the two detained youths. One of them was beaten to death at the scene, while the other sustained serious injuries and was found lying on the road.
The violence subsequently spread to the vehicles, which were allegedly vandalised and set on fire, triggering tension in the locality.
A large police contingent from Matigara police station rushed to the spot after receiving information about the incident and took measures to restore order. The injured youth was taken to a nearby hospital, where his condition was reported to be critical.
The deceased youth’s body was sent for post-mortem examination to establish the exact cause of death.
Police have registered a case against the arrested individuals and others allegedly involved in the lynching and vandalism. A senior officer of the Siliguri Metropolitan Police said an investigation was underway to identify all those involved and ensure their arrest.
Meanwhile, local residents claimed that repeated incidents of cattle theft had been reported in the area, fuelling resentment among villagers. They said the presence of unfamiliar people travelling in a car during the early hours had raised suspicion and prompted the chase.
The police investigation is ongoing to establish the circumstances leading to the assault, the death of the youth and the subsequent destruction of the vehicles.
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