The incident took place in Naugain village under the jurisdiction of Sonhat Police Station.
SUV Set Ablaze During Violent Clash
According to reports, a Fortuner SUV carrying the victims was intercepted and trapped between trucks during the confrontation.
The vehicle was allegedly doused with petrol and set on fire, leaving the occupants trapped inside.
After the flames were extinguished, three bodies were recovered from the charred vehicle.
BJP Leaders Among Victims
The deceased include former Janpad Panchayat President Bharat Singh, popularly known as Lalla Singh, along with two others. Reports said two of the victims were associated with the BJP.
The gruesome nature of the killings has triggered outrage in the region and prompted a major police operation.
Four Arrested, Search On For Others
Police have arrested four accused in connection with the case.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Akshat Tripathi, Vishal Tripathi, Satyaprakash Tripathi and Mannu Tripathi.
A case has been registered against nine people under various charges, including murder and attempted murder. Efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining accused.
Dispute Linked To Sand Mining Activities
Preliminary investigations suggest that the violence stemmed from a prolonged rivalry linked to sand mining operations in the area.
Illegal and disputed sand mining has frequently led to tensions in several districts of Chhattisgarh, where control over mining sites often involves competing local groups and contractors.
Police are probing whether the attack was pre-planned and examining the role of all those involved in the dispute.
Authorities have increased security in the area to prevent any further escalation following the killings.