Kolkata schoolboy death: 18 arrested for arson in Behala

Security personnel in large numbers deployed during a protest that erupted following a road accident in which a student of the Barisha High School was killed by a speeding truck. Credit: PTI Photo

At least 18 people have been arrested and several others detained in connection with rioting and arson in the city's Behala area, following the death of a six-year-old boy in a road accident.

A speeding truck had crushed the Class 2 student and left his father battling for life in hospital on Friday morning, triggering massive protests.

"We have arrested 18 persons for their alleged involvement in rioting and arson yesterday," a police officer said.

Another officer said a few others have also been detained for their suspected involvement.

Also Read | Minor crushed to death by speeding truck in Kolkata, massive protests erupt

The police had on Friday night arrested the driver and helper of the truck.

Several police vehicles and private buses were set on fire in the aftermath of the accident, prompting the administration to deploy RAF personnel in large numbers.

Police also baton-charged protesters and fired tear gas shells to bring the situation under control on Friday.

The deceased boy's father is undergoing treatment at state-run SSKM Hospital.