Gang clash in Itahari leaves two injured, key suspect in custody

KATHMANDU: A violent gang clash erupted in Itahari-20, Tarahara on Sunday morning around 10 AM, resulting in serious injuries to two individuals, according to local authorities.

The incident occurred when a group led by Susanjung Ghimire, a 19-year-old resident of Dhanpuri Marg in Itahari-20, allegedly launched a premeditated attack on Aakash Giri, a local man who was out shopping for vegetables.

Giri, who worked at a scrap shop operated by Babu Budhathoki in Tarahara, was reportedly targeted due to an ongoing personal dispute.

The altercation escalated into a broader fight between two rival groups.

During the clash, Kiran Rai, also known as Paras, a 25-year-old from Itahari-2, sustained a serious neck injury from a sharp weapon.

He is currently undergoing treatment at BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences in Dharan.

Additionally, Babu Budhathoki, approximately 40 years old and a resident of Itahari-20, suffered a head injury.

After receiving initial treatment in Itahari, he was referred to Biratnagar for further care and is currently under the custody of his relatives.

According to DSP Laxmi Bhandari of the Itahari Area Police Office, both injured individuals remain under police surveillance as investigations continue.

Police have taken three suspects into custody: Susanjung Ghimire, Arun Rai (23) from Itahari-2, and Nitesh Budhathoki from the same area.

Preliminary police findings suggest that the clash was rooted in a longstanding personal feud between the two groups.

Eyewitnesses reported that the group from Itahari-2 arrived armed with khukuris and iron rods.

The police believe the attack was orchestrated by Ghimire and that other accomplices are still at large. A manhunt is currently underway to locate them, including Akash Giri, who is currently missing.

Authorities have secured an extension from the Sunsari District Court to continue the investigation. “We are conducting detailed investigations into all individuals involved and will take necessary legal action accordingly,” DSP Bhandari informed.