Arson attack by Durga Prasai's supporters: Truck driver succumbs to injuries

Jhapa, October 7 — A truck driver has died following an arson attack by supporters of Durga Prasai, who was recently arrested. 

Prasai's supporters set fire to truck number WB 73 E 3056, preventing the driver from escaping near Giribandhu Tea Estate in Birtamod Municipality-6. 

The truck, which was carrying jute from Duhabi in Sunsari, was attacked by a group of 10 to 12 people, who fled the scene afterward. The fire was brought under control by a police team dispatched from the Anarmani area police office, with assistance from the Birtamod Municipality fire brigade. 

The front part of the truck was completely destroyed in the blaze. The driver, Pad Roy, 40, from Islampur, India, sustained burns to his right arm and back. 

He was initially treated at B&C Hospital and was receiving further treatment at North Bengal Medical College when he passed away on Saturday. 

Following the driver's death, his relatives blocked the road at the Nepal-India border for an hour and a half. After the incident, Indian police coordinated with Nepali authorities to bring the body back to Nepal, which is currently at Mechi Provincial Hospital in Bhadrapur. 

In connection with the incident, police have arrested six individuals, including Bhim Tumbapo, coordinator of the recently formed Citizen Defense Force led by Prasai.