Kandaghat: 2 arrested for attempting arson at liquor shop

The Kandaghat police have arrested two 19-year-olds for attempting to set a liquor shop ablaze on the Chail-Kandaghat road.

According to the police, the incident took place on the night of September 13 when the duo tried to break open the shop’s locks. Failing in their attempt, they allegedly set fire to the counter and rate list. The flames were quickly doused by the building owner, preventing further damage.

Balbir Singh, circle head at Manat Enterprises, lodged a complaint the next day at Kandaghat police station. Acting on the complaint, the police examined CCTV footage and other technical evidence from the crime scene, which led to the identification of the accused.

The two were identified as Anuj Anand Gautam, a resident of Saproon in Solan, and Kiran Kumar, a villager from Dhayarighat. Both were arrested on September 16 and produced before a local court the following day, where police sought their remand for further questioning.

Investigators are also probing their past criminal record. The case underscores how desperation for liquor drove the youth to indulge in criminal activity. They have been booked under Section 326(g) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for mischief by fire.