Chhattisgarh: I am innocent, being framed, says constable accused of killing colleagues in CRPF camp

Constable Sanath Kumar Yadav, who was arrested for allegedly killing four colleagues including two seniors on Saturday evening at Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district, on Sunday claimed himself to be innocent.

Kumar told media, “I am innocent and being framed in the fratricidal killing case.”

He added, “After completing my duty hours, I returned to my barrack. Around 5pm on hearing bullet firing I took position.”

Kumar further told the media that after firing was stopped, company commander along with other colleagues took me in custody.

“I don’t know, who opened fire and who all were killed or injured in the firing incident. The weapon used in the killing is another not mine,” added the constable.

Kumar further told the media, “We work together. Small disputes do tend to happen. It does not mean I or anyone will go on a killing spree. I am hear to earn bread and butter for my family, so are my colleagues.”

Deputy Inspector General of Police (Dantewada range) Sundarraj P on Saturday had said, “A fatal incident of fratricide took place after a brawl in the camp.”

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He had then said that in their initial investigation they have learnt that constable Sanath Kumar had allegedly opened fire with his service weapon, an AK 47 rifle, leaving four personnel dead including two sub-inspectors on the spot and another injured.

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Other senior officials said that Kumar was overpowered and apprehended by other colleagues who were present in the camp.

The CRPF is deployed in Chhattisgarh to support state police in countering CPI-Maoist cadres.