Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Tomesh Verma, posted in Chhattisgarh’s Naxal-affected Sukma district, was brutally attacked with a knife in Dantewada on Friday afternoon.

The assailants, who allegedly travelled nearly 350 kilometres from Durg, tracked the officer, entered his car, and carried out the assault. DSP Verma sustained serious injuries to his face, neck, and head but is now stable at Dantewada district hospital.

Attack Stemmed from Past Rivalry

Police sources said DSP Verma had gone to the Sessions Court in Dantewada for official work. The accused, Ramashankar Sahu, a retired army man, and Rajnisha Verma, residents of Durg, had allegedly followed the officer to Dantewada to settle an old rivalry. After a brief conversation outside the court, both entered the DSP’s car, where the attack unfolded.

Two-Hour Ordeal at Knifepoint

According to investigators, the woman held DSP Verma at knifepoint, forcing him to drive around the city for nearly two hours. Near a vehicle showroom, the ex-army man attacked the officer with a knife, slashing his neck. Passersby panicked at the sight of blood, and DSP Verma tried to escape. In self-defense, he drew his service revolver until police arrived and overpowered the assailants.

Accused Linked to Previous Case

Dantewada SP Gaurav Roy confirmed both suspects were arrested and the knife recovered. In a dramatic twist, the woman had earlier lodged a rape complaint against DSP Verma in Durg in December 2024. The case, alleging an incident in August 2024, was pending in court. DSP Verma was acquitted in September 2025. Police believe the attack was premeditated, stemming from the unresolved dispute.

“The neck injury is long and deep but fortunately a police jawan was at the spot who rushed the officer to a hospital,” another source said.

Investigation Underway

The accused have been booked under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for attempted murder. A preliminary probe indicates the woman had contacted DSP Verma over the phone prior to the meeting, luring him into the attack. Police continue their investigation into the motive and any accomplices.

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