Palamu police claim breakthrough in superstition-linked triple murder, 2 arrested

Palamu: Palamu police on Tuesday  claimed to have cracked a triple murder case allegedly triggered by superstition in Panki police station area and arrested two accused brothers. According to police, incident occurred on February 1, 2026, in Kusri Tola Purani Bathan village.

As per police version, information was received around 8.30 am through a local chowkidar about killing of three persons following a dispute between two families. On reaching spot, police found that Maheshi Bhuiyan, around 62, had died earlier the same morning due to illness. However, his sons Ravindra Bhuiyan and Pramod Bhuiyan allegedly suspected witchcraft and occult practices behind his death.

Police claim that driven by this belief, both accused attacked Vijay Bhuiyan, around 50, his wife Havanti Devi alias Phulvanti Devi, around 45, and their 19-year-old son Chhotu Kumar with a tangi and knife, killing all three. Vijay Bhuiyan’s daughter was also assaulted and sustained serious injuries. She is undergoing treatment at a hospital.

On directions of Palamu superintendent of police, a special raiding team was formed under leadership of SDPO Lesliganj. Police said both accused were arrested during raids conducted soon after incident. A tangi allegedly used in crime was recovered on disclosure of accused Pramod Bhuiyan.

Police have registered Panki police station case number 10 of 2026 dated February 1, 2026, under sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, along with provisions of Witchcraft Prevention Act. Investigation in case is continuing.

Palamu police have appealed to public to refrain from superstition, stating that practices like witch-hunting remain a serious social evil and collective awareness is essential to prevent such incidents.