Guwahati Police cracked the Bharalu kidnapping and robbery case within 24 hours of the crime. The incident involved the abduction of a local vegetable vendor from Kahilipara. Four accused have been arrested and key evidence has been recovered.
The victim, 38-year-old Pranjal Das, was reportedly abducted on Monday night while returning home from his stall near the Kahilipara market. The accused allegedly forced him into a vehicle and drove him to a secluded spot along the Bharalu river, where they assaulted and robbed him.
Details of the Crime and Rescue
According to police officials, the kidnappers demanded money and threatened to harm Das. After taking his phone, wallet, and daily earnings, the accused left him tied near the riverbank.
Das managed to free himself and alerted the police early Tuesday morning. Based on his statements and preliminary clues, a special investigation team was formed at once.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (West), Ranjan Bhuyan, said, “The team worked round-the-clock. With the help of local CCTV footage and technical surveillance, we identified the suspects quickly.”
Arrests Made, Key Evidence Seized
By Tuesday evening, four individuals were detained from various locations across the city. The arrested have been identified as Rajib Ali, Suman Das, Deepak Roy, and Irfan Hussain—all residents of the greater Guwahati area.
Police recovered the victim’s stolen belongings, including cash, a mobile phone, and a duplicate key to his vegetable cart. The car used in the crime was also seized from the Noonmati area.
Bhuyan added, “This was a planned act. The accused were familiar with the victim’s routine and knew when he carried cash.”
Motive Behind the Kidnapping
Preliminary investigations suggest that the motive was financial. One of the accused, Rajib Ali, is believed to have been a former acquaintance of the victim. He allegedly planned the kidnapping after facing financial trouble.
Officials said the group had been watching Das for a few days before executing the plan. Also, they had also mapped escape routes along the Bharalu River, assuming the area would delay detection.
Police Praised for Quick Response
The successful operation within such a short period has been praised by the public and higher officials. Assam DGP G.P. Singh took to social media to congratulate the Guwahati Police team, calling it a “model example of swift law enforcement.”
Local citizens in Kahilipara also expressed relief, appreciating the police’s efficiency. “We feel safer knowing they acted so fast. Crimes like this make us all nervous, especially vendors,” said Anup Sharma, a nearby shop owner.
Legal Action Underway
The accused have been charged under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including kidnapping, robbery, criminal intimidation, and wrongful confinement. Moreover, they are currently in police custody and will be produced before a magistrate.
Officials confirmed that further investigations are ongoing to determine if the group was involved in any past incidents or linked to a larger network.
Guwahati Police Urge Vigilance
Police are urging citizens, especially small business owners and daily wage workers, to remain alert and report suspicious activities. Furthermore, regular patrolling in market areas and near riverbanks has been increased.
Citizens can contact the Guwahati Police helpline 0361-2520100 for emergencies or submit tips anonymously through the city’s official crime reporting portal.
Call to Action
Stay informed. Protect your routine. Don’t hesitate to report threats. The Bharalu case is a reminder that community awareness and rapid response can together keep the city safe.
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