In a significant development, police have arrested 72 individuals in connection with the alleged assault on two officials of the Special Intelligence Branch (SIR) from West Bengal in Odisha’s Balasore district.
The incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday at Raibania under Balasore district. According to sources, the two officials had mistakenly entered the area while travelling towards Nayagram in neighbouring West Bengal. Their unfamiliar presence allegedly triggered suspicion among some local residents, who accused them of being child kidnappers.
A mob allegedly manhandled and confined the two officials. When police personnel reached the spot to rescue them, they reportedly encountered resistance from members of the crowd, leading to scuffles and heated exchanges.
Police have registered two separate cases related to the incident. Officials confirmed that 72 persons have been arrested and forwarded to court for further legal proceedings.
Reacting to the incident, Balasore Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Niranjan Behera appealed to the public not to believe or act upon rumours concerning child abduction. He urged citizens to immediately inform police authorities if they suspect any individual, rather than taking the law into their own hands.
Authorities also advised residents to dial the emergency helpline number 112 in case of suspicion. Police reiterated that spreading unverified rumours or engaging in mob violence can lead to serious legal consequences.
