FIR on 173 as family of 5 burnt alive over witchcraft suspicion in Purnia

Five members of a single family were allegedly beaten and burnt alive in Bihar’s Purnia district over suspicion of witchcraft. The incident occurred on Sunday night in Tetgama Adivasi Tola under Rajiganj Panchayat of Purnia East block. The victims were reportedly dragged out of their home, assaulted, and later doused in petrol and set ablaze. Their bodies were then transported by tractor and dumped in a nearby field.

On Tuesday morning, the last rites of all five victims were conducted at Captain Bridge under police surveillance. Security arrangements were made at the cremation site to avoid any untoward incident. The local police, under supervision of senior officers, ensured the safe conduct of the cremation process.

Police have arrested three accused so far—Nakul Oraon, Sanaullah, and Chhotu Oraon. A total of 173 individuals have been named in the FIR, out of which 23 are named and 150 are unknown. The tractor allegedly used in transporting the bodies has been seized by police. Officials visited the crime spot and gathered forensic and physical evidence.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed under the leadership of the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO)-1, Sadar, Purnia. The SIT includes other senior officers from the district. The DIG of the concerned range is monitoring the investigation. Police are conducting continuous raids in various areas to arrest the remaining accused.

According to police reports, most of the male residents of the village fled following the incident. Police teams have been deployed in the area to maintain law and order and assist the SIT in identifying and apprehending those involved in the killings. Further investigation is ongoing.