Sandeshkhali, India — West Bengal Police apprehended Musa Mollah, a local Trinamool Congress worker, on Tuesday, four days after a violent confrontation with officers responding to complaints about land occupation in the area. This arrest marked the thirteenth related to the ongoing investigation.
Mollah faces allegations of illegally occupying land in the North 24 Parganas district and is expected to appear before the Basirhat sub-divisional court. Law enforcement plans to request his remand for additional questioning.
The incident unfolded when police visited Mollah’s residence in Boyarmari village to address complaints regarding land use violations. Authorities had previously placed prohibitory orders on the disputed property after reports of Mollah filling adjacent farmland with salt water. Despite receiving multiple notices, Mollah allegedly did not comply with the directives.
As officers attempted to take him into custody, Mollah reportedly summoned supporters who obstructed the police vehicle, leading to a violent altercation. Six officers sustained injuries during the fracas, while Mollah was reportedly rescued from the scene by his supporters.
In a continuing pattern of unrest, personnel from the nearby Rajbari police outpost were also targeted when they arrived to assist. Following the skirmish, police increased their presence in the area to restore order and conducted further arrests in response to the escalating violence.
Sandeshkhali has recently drawn attention due to prior incidents involving attacks on law enforcement. Earlier this year, an Enforcement Directorate team was assaulted while visiting the home of a suspended Trinamool Congress leader in the same region.
The rapid series of events underscores persistent tensions in the area regarding land disputes and political influence. Local authorities remain on high alert as they navigate the complexities of law enforcement amidst the volatile environment.