Agartala, November 17, 2025: The resurgence of local mafia activity has once again shaken Tripura’s Kakraban under Gomati district, where a local businessman was brutally assaulted on Sunday morning after refusing to pay extortion money.

According to police and local people, Laxman Saha, a trader at the Kakraban market was attacked around 8:30 am inside his shop by a group of miscreants armed with iron rods, pipes and heavy wooden sticks. The assailants allegedly stormed in and beat him mercilessly, leaving him bloodied. Saha managed to escape and sought refuge at Kakraban police station.

The victim has accused five men- Babul Deb, Jamal Mirda, Rajesh Sarkar, Nikhil Saha and Narayan Saha of staging the assault. Locals claim the group has long maintained dominance in the area, creating an atmosphere of fear. The attack reportedly followed Saha’s refusal to pay Rs 1 lakh in “donation” demanded after he purchased land. His family had been receiving threats for weeks.

Saha’s wife further alleged that on the night before the attack, the same group hurled liquor bottles, bricks, and stones at their home, causing damage and terrorizing the family. The following morning, her husband was targeted in the marketplace.

The incident has triggered widespread tension in Kakraban. Police confirmed that Saha received preliminary medical treatment and that an investigation is underway. OC of Kakraban police station Jayanta Malakar said “The case number is 62/2025 under noticeable sections.” A manhunt has been launched to arrest the accused, police sources added.

Residents have voiced growing concern over rising drug trade, extortion, and criminal activities in the area, warning that public safety is at risk. Local members are demanding swift arrests and strict punishment for those responsible.