Police vehicles smashed, arrests made as violence erupts late Friday night

Chaos erupted in Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parganas, on Friday night after a mob attacked police teams during a raid at the residence of local Trinamool Congress leader Musa Mollah, leaving six policemen injured and multiple police vehicles damaged.

The clash reportedly broke out when police asked Mollah to accompany them to a nearby outpost under Najat police station. Within minutes, the situation spiralled out of control as a hostile crowd allegedly surrounded officers and launched a violent assault.

Police have arrested nine people in connection with the attack, while two more-including a TMC panchayat pradhan and his deputy from the Boyermari rural body - have been detained for questioning.

The fresh violence has reignited memories of Sandeshkhali’s explosive past, recalling the January 5, 2024 unrest, when an Enforcement Directorate team probing a ration scam was attacked during a raid at the home of TMC strongman Shahjahan Sheikh, leaving central officials injured and triggering nationwide outrage.

Heavy police deployment continues in the area as investigations remain underway.