Kolkata, January 12. A local cricket match in the Barakar area of Asansol, West Bardhaman district, turned violent as a clash broke out between two local clubs, reportedly involving gunfire. The police confirmed this incident on Monday.
According to the police, shots were fired in front of the Barakar police outpost during the altercation, although no injuries have been reported. Local residents claim that the shots were fired into the air. The police recovered two empty cartridges from the scene.
Upon receiving the information, a large police force was dispatched to the location. Reports indicate that stones and bricks were thrown at the police, resulting in injuries to several officers.
The incident reportedly began on Sunday when young men from two local neighborhoods were playing cricket near the Barakar police outpost. Tensions escalated following a minor argument. The local administration intervened and summoned both parties to the police station, where discussions helped bring the situation under control.
However, by Monday morning, tensions reportedly flared up again, transforming the area into a battleground where bricks were hurled and gunfire was exchanged.
A heavy police presence has been deployed in the area, and reports indicate that the police had to resort to lathi-charge to regain control.
The police have launched an investigation to identify the individuals involved in the violence and to locate the person who fired the shots. A senior officer from the Asansol-Durgapur Police Commissioner’s office stated that an investigation is underway, and the situation is currently under control, although some officers have sustained injuries.