In a significant development, West Bengal Police have apprehended Ziaul Sheikh, the prime accused in the double murder of a father and son in Murshidabad district. Sheikh, a resident of Sulitala Purbapara near Jafrabad, had been evading authorities since the incident on April 12, 2025. He was arrested from his hideout in Chopra, Uttar Dinajpur district, during a joint operation by the Special Task Force (STF) and the Special Investigation Team (SIT) .
The murders occurred amidst violent protests over amendments to the Waqf Act, which had led to widespread unrest in Murshidabad. According to police reports, Sheikh allegedly instigated a mob that attacked the residence of Haragobindo Das and his son Chandan Das, resulting in their deaths. Investigators have gathered substantial evidence, including CCTV footage and mobile tower data, placing Sheikh at the crime scene .
This arrest marks the fourth in the case. Earlier, authorities had detained brothers Kalu Nadar and Dildar, along with Inzmam Ul Haque, from various locations including Murarai in Birbhum district and areas near the Bangladesh border. The ongoing investigation has led to over 100 FIRs and the arrest of 276 individuals connected to the Murshidabad violence .
The situation remains tense as law enforcement continues efforts to restore order and bring all perpetrators to justice.
