In a significant development, police arrested Rahim, a key suspect in the murder of Deepak Gupta, a 19-year-old NEET aspirant in Gorakhpur, after a police encounter. The encounter took place on Tuesday in Mauachapi village during a joint operation. Rahim sustained injuries during the exchange of fire and is now hospitalized under police guard. The killing of Gupta sparked violent protests, including road blockades and stone-pelting, resulting in injuries to law enforcement personnel. The incident occurred around 12:30 AM on Monday in Mauachapi village. Cattle smugglers arrived in three vehicles, leading to a confrontation with villagers, including Gupta. The smugglers abducted Gupta, drove him around for an hour, and fatally injured him before dumping his body. Authorities have registered a case and deployed multiple teams to apprehend the remaining suspects. One alleged smuggler was caught and beaten by villagers. Contrary to initial rumors, officials confirmed that Gupta’s death was not caused by a gunshot wound. Road blockades and clashes ensued, prompting the deployment of forces from multiple police stations and the PAC. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed strict action, and senior officials have met with the victim’s family.
