Violent Clash Erupts in Sonepur: Police Attacked, Four Arrested

Sonepur — A longstanding feud between villagers in Palash village near Hikudi outpost escalated into violence on Saturday, resulting in a police team being attacked and four individuals arrested.

The incident began when Brundaban Padhan filed a complaint against Sarat Bhoi and others, alleging an attempted assault and property damage.

Acting on the complaint, Assistant Sub-Inspector Basanta Rath and his team arrived on motorcycles to investigate.

Upon confronting the accused, tensions flared. Members of the Bhoi household reportedly verbally abused the officers and vandalised their vehicles, forcing the police to retreat for safety.

Following the attack, Sub-Divisional Police Officer Hemant Rao dispatched reinforcements.

The police arrested four individuals—Akshay Bagarti, Rakesh Bhoi, Sarat Bhoi, and Subarna Bhoi—who were later produced in court. ASI Abhinash Padhan confirmed that further arrests may follow as investigations continue.

The incident has sparked concern over rising rural violence and the safety of law enforcement personnel in conflict-prone areas.