In a disturbing turn of events, a late-night altercation over a financial dispute erupted into a violent brawl in the Ketki Society area near Sonal Cinema in Vejalpur, Ahmedabad on April 9. The clash, which occurred at approximately 11.45 pm, resulted in multiple injuries and the arrest of nine individuals.

According to the initial complaint filed at Vejalpur police station, Ashif Ghulam Ahmed Sheikh, a land dealer known locally as 'Malik Builder', alleged that Oshama Sahid Bakshi, along with his brothers Khalid and Arbaaz Bakshi, arrived at his residence armed with swords. The trio allegedly assaulted Ashif and his friend Arbaaz Ayub Khan Pathan, following repeated demands from Ashif for repayment of a loan. The complainant claims he was attacked with a sword and verbally abused and that the assailants issued a death threat before fleeing the scene.

In a counter-complaint, Khalid Sahid Bakshi accused Ashif Sheikh and his associates, identified as Saheed Sarfaraj Sheikh and Arbaaz Khan of assaulting him with knives and wooden sticks. Khalid claimed that Ashif attempted to stab him during the scuffle, leaving him with a wound on his upper left arm. He sought medical treatment at SVP Hospital but admitted to initially refraining from reporting the incident due to fear.

Police have registered cross FIRs under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Gujarat Police Act, booking the accused on charges that include attempted assault, criminal intimidation, possession of deadly weapons, and unlawful assembly.

Accused Individuals

From Bakshi Group:

- Oshama Sahid Bakshi

- Khalid Sahid Bakshi

- Arbaaz Sahid Bakshi

- Sahil Firdoshbhai Sepoy

- Atiq Ahmed Ansari

- Farhan Firdoshbhai Sepoy

From Mandli Group:

- Ashif Ghulam Ahmad Sheikh

- Saheed Sarfaraj Sheikh

- Arbaaz Ayub Khan Pathan

Notably, local sources have linked Arbaaz Bakshi to a former member of the infamous Latif gang, fuelling suspicion of possible connections to narcotics trafficking in the area. Police officials, however, have stated that investigations into these claims are ongoing.

Khalid Bakshi sustained a stab wound on his left arm, while Ashif Sheikh and Arbaaz Khan have also reported injuries.

Police action

Weapons used in the confrontation have been recovered. Police have assured residents that a thorough inquiry will be carried out, with legal proceedings following due process. Additional patrols and surveillance have been implemented in the locality to ensure public safety.