Police have detained 19 people in connection with the killing of a youth in a mob attack at Gouri Nagar under Kokrajhar Police Station on Monday evening. The incident, which took place on suspicion of cattle theft, has led to tension in parts of Kokrajhar district, especially in the Karigaon area.Superintendent of Police Akshad Garg said police have started a detailed investigation into the case. He confirmed that 19 individuals have been detained so far and are being questioned to establish their role in the incident. He added that the situation is being closely monitored.According to police sources, the incident occurred when a group of five people associated with a road construction project were returning to Kokrajhar after inspecting a work site in the Aoudang area.
They were travelling in a Scorpio vehicle. When the vehicle reached the Gouri Nagar–Mashing Road stretch, some local villagers allegedly tried to stop it, suspecting the occupants to be cattle lifters.During the confrontation, the vehicle reportedly met with an accident. Soon after, a mob allegedly attacked the occupants of the vehicle. The Scorpio was also set on fire during the violence. One person died in the attack, while four others sustained serious injuries.The deceased has been identified as Sikhna Jwhwlao Bismit, also known as Raja. He was the son-in-law of Moranda Basumatary, a well-known contractor engaged in the ongoing road construction work in the area. The injured persons were rushed to Kokrajhar Medical College and Hospital, where they are currently undergoing treatment. Hospital sources said their condition remains serious.
On Tuesday, anger over the incident spilled onto the streets. Hundreds of people gathered on the National Highway at Karigaon and blocked traffic for several hours. The protesters demanded immediate arrest of all those involved in the killing and justice for the victim. As part of the protest, tyres were burnt on the road, causing disruption to vehicular movement.