SUNSARI: A violent clash in Captainganj of Dewanganj Rural Municipality-3, Sunsari, which left three people dead, has caused extensive property damage across the district, according to preliminary figures compiled by the District Police Office, Sunsari.

Police said 112 houses and other physical structures and 61 vehicles were damaged during the clash and the unrest that followed.

The dispute began on the evening of July 25 (10 Saun) over the use of DJ music during a Bol Bom religious procession before escalating into a violent clash. Subsequent incidents of vandalism, arson and violent protests were reported in Captainganj and other parts of Sunsari.

Of the 112 damaged structures, 23 concrete houses were completely destroyed, while 25 of 34 mud-and-brick houses were burned down. The damage also includes 50 sheds and other small structures, two temples, five other structures and a brick kiln.

Police said 61 vehicles were damaged, including 44 two-wheelers and five four-wheelers that were completely destroyed.

During the ensuing unrest, protesters reportedly vandalised or set fire to 52 motorcycles and scooters, eight electric city safaris and four four-wheelers at various locations across Sunsari.

Sunsari District Police Chief SP Pushparaj Malla said the assessment of the damage is still underway. Police are continuing to receive complaints and verify the reported losses, he said.

Three local youths-Om Prakash Mehta, Jai Prakash Mehta and Rabindra Mehta-were killed by gunfire during the incident at Naya Hatiya in Captainganj on July 25.

Of the 40 people injured, 12 are still receiving treatment at different hospitals, while 25 have been discharged after treatment.

Meanwhile, the tenure of the committee formed to investigate the incident has been extended by another 15 days. The Ministry of Home Affairs extended the mandate of the committee led by Joint Secretary Bhupendra Thapa on Thursday. The committee had initially been formed on July 26 with a seven-day mandate.