Kolkata: In West Bengal’s Birbhum district, at least two individuals lost their lives in a bomb explosion late Friday night at Hatia village, police officials announced on Saturday. The incident took place amidst a series of violent clashes earlier in the day between two rival groups involved in criminal activities.
According to district police sources, the violence was centered around local control issues, and the blast occurred during a particularly fierce confrontation. Birbhum SP Amandeep confirmed the deaths and stated that an investigation is ongoing. The identities of the victims have not been officially revealed, though locals suggest both were affiliated with the ruling Trinamool Congress.
Villagers reported that several others were injured in the explosion, but authorities have not confirmed this information and are maintaining strict confidentiality. Hatia village has a history of gang rivalry, with both factions allegedly involved in illegal counterfeit coin manufacturing aimed at collectors. The groups are believed to be led by Sheikh Mainuddin and his associate Sheikh Mustafi on one side, and Sheikh Munir on the other.
Residents said that recently, Munir’s faction had gained the upper hand, forcing Mainuddin and Mustafi to stay away from the area for some time. Tensions escalated again on Friday afternoon when Mainuddin and Mustafi attempted to re-enter Hatia but were blocked by Munir’s group. Clashes erupted and persisted throughout the day.
Late Friday night, Mainuddin and Mustafi reportedly returned with weapons and crude bombs, leading to a major altercation. During the ensuing violence, a stockpile of bombs detonated, resulting in two deaths and injuries to others.
Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the explosion and the identities of those involved. The situation in Hatia remains tense, and further inquiries are ongoing.