Attack on NIA Officers in West Bengal Declared “Unprovoked” by Agency

Kolkata, India: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) made a statement on Sunday addressing the recent attack on its officers in the Bhupatinagar area. The agency vehemently denied any wrongdoing in its actions related to an ongoing investigation into a fatal explosion caused by crude bombs. The incident, resulting in three deaths in Naruabila village, sparked a violent confrontation when the NIA team conducted searches in the area. The NIA emphasized that the attack on its officers was unprovoked and aimed at obstructing their lawful duties.

According to the NIA, the searches in Naruabila village were carried out at five locations with proper legal procedures and the presence of independent witnesses. Despite the security cover provided, the NIA personnel faced aggression from a mob while transferring the arrested accused to the local police station. One NIA official sustained injuries, and an official vehicle was damaged during the attack. The NIA has since filed a complaint seeking legal action against those responsible for the assault.

In relation to the case, two accused individuals, Manobrata Jana and Bailicharan Maity, were arrested by the NIA for their involvement in the crude bomb explosion. The agency revealed that the accused had repeatedly failed to cooperate with the investigation despite summons. A statement released by the NIA highlighted the seriousness of the allegations against the arrested individuals, as acknowledged by the Special NIA Court in Kolkata.

The NIA stated that its actions in Bhupatinagar were lawful and part of a legitimate investigation sanctioned by the Calcutta High Court. The agency refuted allegations of unlawful behavior raised by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) while withholding comment on bribery accusations against one of its officers. As the probe continues into the tragic explosion from December 2022, the NIA remains committed to upholding the law and pursuing justice for the victims.