Ziweya Leeroy, a 22-year-old Zimbabwean student, tragically passed away on Thursday at AIIMS Bathinda after a week-long battle for his life following a violent campus attack. The incident has sent shockwaves through both local and international communities, highlighting concerns over student safety on Indian campuses.
Ziweya Leeroy, who had joined Guru Kashi University in Talwandi Sabo in 2023, was pursuing a BSc in Radiology and Imaging Technology (RIT). He had appeared to be settling into his academic life when an altercation with a university security guard escalated into a deadly confrontation. The dispute, which reportedly took place on August 12, involved security guard Dilpreet Singh and Ziweya. Initial reports indicate that the disagreement may have stemmed from routine campus security protocols, though details remain under investigation.
Tragically, the following day, Ziweya was attacked while leaving the university premises. Police investigations indicate that Dilpreet Singh, along with Lovepreet, Mangu, and Manpreet Singh, were involved in the violent assault. During the attack, Ziweya Leeroy sustained serious head injuries and was immediately rushed to AIIMS Bathinda for medical care. Despite intensive treatment, his condition deteriorated over the week, culminating in his untimely death.
Tragic Death of Zimbabwean Student Ziweya Leeroy in India Sparks Police Action
Authorities have taken swift action in response to the incident. As per Bathinda Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Amneet Kondal, seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack, and two more individuals are still being sought. The police have upgraded the case to include a murder charge, in addition to existing allegations of attempt to murder, wrongful restraint, voluntarily causing hurt, unlawful assembly, and rioting with deadly weapons.
“Seven persons have been arrested, and efforts are being made to apprehend two more suspects associated with the attack. The section pertaining to murder has been added to the already registered case. Further investigations are ongoing,” SSP Kondal confirmed.
Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Des Raj, who is overseeing initial investigations, noted that the violent confrontation was a direct escalation of the disagreement between Ziweya and the security personnel. He added that authorities are meticulously examining witness statements and surveillance footage from the university to establish the sequence of events that led to the fatal attack.
The shocking death has raised urgent questions about campus safety and the treatment of international students in India. Ziweya Leeroy’s family and fellow students have expressed grief and outrage, calling for swift justice and stronger protections for students against violent incidents. Many have highlighted the need for improved security measures and student support systems, particularly for international students who may be unfamiliar with local practices and vulnerable to conflicts.
University officials have issued statements expressing condolences to Ziweya Leeroy’s family while pledging cooperation with law enforcement. They have also emphasized their commitment to reviewing campus security protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future. However, critics argue that preventive measures should have been more robust to protect students from such targeted attacks.
The incident has also drawn attention from the Zimbabwean community and international student organizations. Many are urging authorities in India to ensure a transparent investigation and to bring all responsible parties to justice. The tragic loss of Ziweya is a stark reminder of the risks faced by students far from home and underscores the need for heightened vigilance and accountability within educational institutions.
In the meantime, police continue to pursue the remaining suspects and are calling on witnesses to come forward with any information that could aid the investigation. Local law enforcement has assured the public that all measures are being taken to ensure that justice is served.
Ziweya Leeroy’s death is not only a personal tragedy for his family and friends but also a somber warning about the importance of student safety, conflict management, and the protection of international students. Authorities, educational institutions, and the broader community are now grappling with the urgent need to prevent such incidents and to provide a safe, supportive environment for students pursuing their dreams abroad.
Source- iHarare
