Revenge Killing in Bengal: Man Murders Brother's Alleged Killer After 10 Years

Police said the man was attacked with sharp weapons while on his way to work. (Representational)

Kolkata:

In a suspected revenge killing, a man has been accused of murdering the individual who allegedly killed his brother approximately 10 years ago, police reported on Monday.

The incident occurred around midnight on Sunday at the Kendua ash pond of National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) Ltd within the jurisdiction of Farakka police station in Murshidabad district.

The victim has been identified as 48-year-old Alam Sheikh, who was employed as a night watchman at the ash pond.

According to police, he was attacked with sharp weapons while traveling to his workplace. The main suspect has been identified as Panna Sheikh. No arrests had been made as of Monday morning.

Police reports indicate that in 2015, a murder occurred in Jorapukuria village following a local dispute. Alam Sheikh, along with several others, was accused of removing Toufiq Sheikh—Panna Sheikh's brother—from his residence and fatally beating him. A case was filed at the Farakka police station, and Alam Sheikh was taken into custody. He was subsequently released on bail after spending a significant period incarcerated.

Following Toufiq Sheikh's death, his elder brother, Panna Sheikh, reportedly left the village, fearing retribution. Police stated he returned to Jorapukuria a few months ago after years away and had been residing there since.

On Sunday night, when Alam Sheikh was proceeding to his workplace, he was allegedly intercepted by Panna Sheikh and several others, who fatally attacked him before leaving the scene. Alam Sheikh died immediately. Police later retrieved the body and transported it to Jangipur Sub-Divisional Hospital for autopsy.

"The body has been recovered and sent for examination. A murder case has been registered. Initial evidence suggests this is a revenge killing. We have initiated a search operation to apprehend the accused," a senior Jangipur police officer stated.

Alam Sheikh's elder brother, Nabi Sheikh—also a local Trinamool Congress leader—said the family had concerns after Panna Sheikh returned to the village. "We anticipated problems after his return, but we never imagined he would brutally murder my brother," he explained.

Following the killing, tension has emerged in the area. Police forces have been deployed and security has been enhanced to prevent any potential incidents.