12-05-2025
Marble trader's godown set ablaze in Punjab after he opposes drug peddling, probe on
A Zirakpur-based marble trader faced a violent backlash for standing up against drug peddling in the area.
A group of 20-25 unidentified attackers stormed his godown on Saturday night, vandalised goods, assaulted his workers, and eventually set the premises on fire causing damage worth lakhs.
The incident has spread panic among local businessmen, raising serious concerns about law and order in the godown zone.
The victim, Bindar Kumar, a resident of Govind Vihar, Baltana, who runs Sai Marble, said that a group of youths had been allegedly selling drugs near his godown. 'I confronted them on Saturday morning and warned them not to carry out such activities near my business,' Kumar said.
Later that night, a mob of around 20-25 men broke into the godown by damaging the shutters, destroyed the stock of marble, and then set the place ablaze. Kumar's workers were also physically assaulted during the attack.
Kumar believes the attack was a direct result of his efforts to stop drug trafficking in the area.
'This was an act of revenge. I tried to protect my workplace and community from illegal activities, and now I've suffered heavy financial losses. I fear for the safety of my workers and the future of my business,' he added.
He lodged a formal complaint with the Zirakpur police, urging them to take strict action against the culprits and ensure proper security in the godown area.
The police confirmed receipt of the complaint and assured that an investigation is underway. 'All necessary measures will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future,' a police official said.
