Patna (AsiaNews) – Two police officers from the centre east state of Bihar intervened in a mob lynching born of an attempted theft, only to then tie the thief’s hands to the back of their motorbike and drag him along the street, for over five metres.
The incident was recorded in an amateur video clip lasting a little more than three minutes, which has shocked the entire nation: it shows the two police men taking part in the mob attack before dispersing crowds, then after calming the mob they attach the thief to the vehicle repeatedly insulting him.
The victim, Mohammad Aurangzeb, was caught as he attempted to rob a bag. His is now under hospital care, in grave conditions in Bhagalpur. His sister has made a desperate plea: “He was wrong, but this is far too much. On the other hand we are poor and no-one hears our cries”.
The local population attacked the police station throwing stones and shouting slogans against the two officers. Anil Sinha, Inspector General of Bihar police has strongly condemned the incident stating:” We condemn this act and are totally disgusted with the situation which has unfolded. Two erring policemen cannot be given the liberty to malign the entire police force by their reprehensible act.”
It is not the first time abuse of power has taken place in Bhagalpur. Last week a village leader attacked a young man burning his eyes with acid, but he has been protected by the officers called by the victim. In 1980, Bhagalpur came into news when it was reported that the police blinded 31 prisoners awaiting trial or “convicted criminals”, according to police, by pouring acid into their eyes.
