A Muslim man was killed and his brother seriously injured after a mob attacked them over alleged animal theft in Chhapra’s Ahitoli area under Nagar police station limits.
According to locals, the stolen animal was found in a nearby area called Kasai Toli. This discovery angered people, and a mob brutally beat two brothers – Zakir Qureshi and Nihal Qureshi. Zakir died during treatment, while Nihal is in a serious condition and is currently admitted to Patna’s PMCH hospital.
“Zakir was attacked by around 50-60 people. They tied his hands and beat him with rods, breaking both his legs and back. They attacked him because they said he was a ‘miya’ (Muslim),” a friend of Zakir said.
The incident reportedly occurred on the evening of May 11, between 5 PM and 7 PM.
“Zakir was a simple guy, he loved working out and gymming,” his friend added. “He wasn’t involved in any theft. He never did anything wrong. This was a false accusation.”
The violence didn’t stop there. As news of Zakir’s death spread, locals from the Khanua area staged angry protests and clashed with the police. Stones were thrown, injuring several police personnel. The police had to deploy extra forces to bring the situation under control.
The police said that based on the statement of injured Nehal Qureshi, case number 250/25 was registered in Nagar police station on 12 May 2025. In this case, a case has been registered under section 126(2), 115(2), 125(B), 109, 103(1), 352, 351(2), 3(5) of BNS.
After investigation, a special police team conducted raids and arrested two main accused Pankaj Kumar and Mintu Rai. Both have confessed their crime. Raids are continuing to arrest the remaining accused. The culprits will be punished through speedy trial.
Authorities have appealed for peace. “We request all citizens to stay calm and not believe in rumours,” a senior police official said. “We have launched a full investigation and promise strict action against those involved.”
The area around the Khanua canal, where many from the Kasai (butcher) and Kunjar communities live, has seen past tensions over animal theft allegations.
Police say they are trying to find out exactly how the theft occurred and who was behind it. Meanwhile, the district administration has declared the situation “sensitive” and is keeping a close watch.
The family and community have demanded a proper investigation and punishment for those responsible. The funeral of Zakir was held on May 12 amid heavy police presence.
