Guwahati, Jan 3: Police have arrested 18 people, including four women, in connection with the brutal killing of a couple over allegations of witchcraft in Assam’s Karbi Anglong district.
The incident occurred on December 30, 2025, at Beloguri Munda village in the Howraghat area, where the couple was allegedly attacked by a group of villagers driven by superstition. Police said the victims were beaten and then set on fire, resulting in their deaths.
“We have identified the accused and arrested 18 persons so far. Further arrests are likely as the investigation progresses,” Karbi Anglong Superintendent of Police Pushpraj Singh said.
Police have invoked relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including Section 103 (murder). A suo motu case has also been registered under the Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Act, which classifies witch-hunting as a cognisable and non-bailable offence.
According to investigators, the couple was accused by villagers of practising witchcraft and being responsible for illnesses and misfortunes in the area. The victims were allegedly attacked inside their home before being set ablaze.
Police said the investigation is ongoing to identify all those involved and to establish individual roles in the crime.
