Moga Migrant Labour Firing Case: Four days after gunshots disrupted the peak paddy processing season in Punjab’s Moga district, the police have detained two suspects in connection with the firing on migrant labourers. The breakthrough has brought partial relief to thousands of workers who had been gripped by fear since the attack.
Sources within the investigation revealed that one of the detained individuals is a village sarpanch from Ferozepur district and is suspected to have played a key role in planning the attack. Officials, however, have chosen not to disclose detailed information at this stage, saying that revealing specifics could hamper the investigation.
The firing took place on February 10 near a rice sheller in Moga. Seven to eight migrant labourers from Bihar were returning to their rented accommodation when three motorcycle-borne assailants allegedly opened fire without warning. The sudden gunshots created panic in the area, sending shockwaves across the migrant community that forms the backbone of Punjab’s agricultural processing sector.
Two labourers, Ashok Kumar and Subodh Majhi, sustained bullet injuries. They were rushed to a private hospital in Moga for immediate medical care. Due to the seriousness of the injuries, one of them was later referred to Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital for advanced treatment. Medical officials confirmed that both injured workers remain under supervision.
Police teams, including forensic experts, examined the crime scene soon after the incident. Officers collected ballistic evidence and reviewed CCTV footage from nearby establishments to trace the attackers’ movements. Sources say the alleged shooters have been identified but are still absconding, and a manhunt is currently underway.
The investigation gained urgency after a video surfaced on social media in which two armed men appeared to claim responsibility for the attack while making inflammatory remarks targeting migrant workers. Authorities are verifying the authenticity of the video and examining whether it has direct links to the detained suspects.
The incident has unsettled thousands of migrant labourers working in Moga during the busy paddy season. Many expressed concern over their safety, while local authorities have stepped up patrolling and security arrangements in sensitive areas to restore confidence.
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Police officials have assured that every angle, including possible conspiracy and motive, is being thoroughly investigated. With two suspects now in custody and efforts continuing to apprehend the shooters, the focus remains on ensuring justice and preventing any recurrence of such violence in the district.