Tension persists in Bihubar after former paramilitary personnel’s killing

NAZIRA, September 22, 2026 — Tension continues to prevail in Bihubar under Nazira Co-District following the killing of former paramilitary personnel Biman Barua, allegedly in an attack linked to drug trafficking. Hundreds of people have taken part in rallies and road blockades, demanding stringent punishment for those involved in the murder and an end to the alleged drug and cannabis trade in the Bihubar-Shilni area.

In the latest development, another accused in the murder, identified as Rubul Khan, was allegedly shot in the leg by police on Monday night when he reportedly attempted to escape while being taken to identify the location where the sharp weapon allegedly used in the crime had been discarded.

Earlier, on September 19, prime accused and alleged drug dealer Vicky Singh was also injured in police firing after allegedly attempting to flee police custody. Both accused were subsequently provided medical treatment and kept in police custody in Sivasagar for further interrogation.

According to police and local accounts, the incident occurred on the night of September 18 at Rangajan Bengali Basti in Bihubar Shilni. Barua, who had reportedly been opposing the alleged drug trade in the area, went to Singh’s residence along with a few associates after receiving information about the arrival of drugs.

A confrontation reportedly broke out in front of Singh’s residence, where Khan was allegedly present. During the altercation, Khan reportedly called out to Singh for help. Police allege that Singh then came out carrying a sword and attacked Barua. Khan is also alleged to have attacked Barua with a sharp weapon.

Barua sustained severe injuries and died at the spot. Police sources said the accused subsequently made statements during interrogation regarding their alleged involvement in the attack.

Following the incident, Singh reportedly fled to Naginimora in Nagaland and went into hiding. He was subsequently apprehended by Nagaland Police with the assistance of local youths and handed over to Bihubar Police.

Police later said Singh attempted to escape while being taken to recover the sword allegedly used in the crime, following which police fired at his leg.

Khan reportedly surrendered at Bihubar Police Station the day after the incident. Police said he later attempted to flee while being taken to identify the place where the weapon allegedly used by him had been discarded. He was shot in the leg after he allegedly resisted and tried to escape.

Protests intensify

The murder has triggered strong protests across Bihubar, with local residents demanding a thorough investigation, exemplary punishment for those responsible and measures to make the area free from drugs and cannabis.

Residents have alleged that illegal liquor, cannabis and drug-related activities have continued for years in parts of Bihubar Shilni, including isolated areas around Augurijan. They have also alleged that previous protests and police drives against the suspected drug trade have failed to prevent its recurrence.

On Tuesday, the Bagh Hazarika Aikya Mancha of the Bihubar-Santak Regional Committee organised a large protest march demanding a proper investigation into the murder, stringent punishment for those responsible and action against the alleged drug trade in Bihubar Shilni.

The situation became tense when protesters blocked the entrance road to Singh’s residence and allegedly pelted the house with stones. On Monday night, an attempt was also reportedly made to set fire to the house, but local police intervened and prevented a potentially serious fire.

The protesters also demanded the complete demolition of the accused’s house. The situation was brought under control after senior police officials from Sivasagar reached the protest site and assured the protesters that steps would be taken within 90 days to address the alleged drug trade and proceed against those responsible for the murder in accordance with law.

Meanwhile, a condolence and tribute programme for deceased Biman Barua was scheduled near Bihubar Police Station on Tuesday evening.

Local residents have called for sustained action against the alleged drug network and a transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Barua’s death.