Police shot the main accused in the Chapra hooch tragedy during an encounter near the Panapur–Mashrak border in Bihar’s Saran district on Monday morning. The accused, Suraj Mahto, suffered a bullet injury in his leg and doctors admitted him to a nearby hospital.
Police say Suraj Mahto played a key role in the Chapra hooch tragedy, where at least five people died after drinking suspected spurious liquor in the Mashrak and Panapur areas. Several others also reportedly lost their eyesight after consuming the liquor.
Officials said a Special Investigation Team had arrested Mahto earlier and was bringing him back to Chapra. During the journey, he allegedly snatched a pistol and tried to escape after firing at police personnel. Officers quickly responded and shot him in the leg.
After the tragedy, police launched a strong crackdown on the illegal liquor network in the district. Authorities have arrested several suspects and seized large quantities of illicit liquor during raids.
