Caught in the act, beaten in the bush: Goat thief lynched in Assam

A suspected goat thief was killed and another critically injured in a mob attack at Hatigarh Bokpara Division of Bokul Tea Estate in Dibrugarh district during the early hours of Sunday. 

The incident has sent shockwaves through the region and raised serious concerns over rising incidents of mob violence.

According to local sources, two individuals arrived on a scooter, allegedly with the intention of stealing goats from the area. However, alert residents caught them red-handed while attempting the theft. 

In a swift reaction, an enraged mob gathered at the spot, assaulted the suspects, and reportedly set their scooter on fire.

One of the accused succumbed to his injuries on the spot as a result of the brutal assault. His identity has not yet been confirmed by authorities. The other accused, identified as Jyotirmoy Hazarika, a resident of Boiragimoth, was severely injured and rushed to the Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) in critical condition, where he continues to receive medical care.

Also Read: Haunted no more: Dhubri’s new court turns page on notorious past

In response to the incident, senior district officials, including Dibrugarh Deputy Commissioner Bikram Kairi and Superintendent of Police Rakesh Reddy visited the site and assured that a thorough investigation is underway. Law enforcement agencies have been deployed in the area to prevent any further escalation and to maintain public order.

"We are taking this incident very seriously. No one has the right to take the law into their own hands," said a senior police official on condition of anonymity. Authorities have begun identifying those involved in the mob attack and further legal action is expected.

The incident underscores the dangers of mob justice and highlights the need for community awareness and restraint, even in the face of alleged crimes.