New Delhi: The police claimed on Monday that 23 people from “both groups” had been detained in connection with the incident in Jahangirpuri, northwest Delhi, on Saturday evening, in which eight police officers and a civilian were hurt.
“23 people have been arrested. They are from both communities. Eight have a previous criminal record. Action will be taken against any person found guilty irrespective of their class, creed, community and religion,” Delhi Police Commissioner Rakesh Asthana said at a news briefing.
However, despite his claims of control, stone-throwing began almost simultaneously in Jahangirpuri, some 20 kilometres distant, over the interrogation of an accused’s sister-in-law.
“The case is being investigated by the Crime Branch. 14 teams have been formed. Four forensic teams visited the crime scenes today and collected samples. Analysis of CCTV footage and digital media is being done,” Mr Asthana said.
“Some people are trying to disturb peace through the medium of social media. We are monitoring social media closely, and legal action will be taken against those who are found spreading misinformation. The public should not pay heed to rumours,” he added.
The apprehended guys were alleged to have five pistols and five swords, according to the police. They’ve already been called to testify in court.
Aslam is one of the persons apprehended, according to the police, who fired at Delhi Police sub-inspector Medalal Meena. He was found with a handgun produced in his home country.
During a Hanuman Jayanti parade on Saturday evening, a fight broke out between two tribes. Both sides have claimed responsibility for the violence. Sonu Chikna, a second gunman, is still on the loose. When a group of demonstrators led by women surged at them and flung stones, the police were attempting to interview his sister-in-law.
Muslims in the region say that people taking part in the Hanuman Jayanti parade were armed and attempted to vandalise a mosque.
According to media reports, Police Commissioner Rakesh Asthana refuted reports that attempts were made to hoist saffron flags at the mosque, but added that investigations were underway to determine what caused the altercation.
The procession’s participants confessed to carrying weapons, but blamed the violence on Muslims who, they claimed, flung stones at them.
During the Ram Navami festival, which commemorates Lord Ram’s birth, communal riots erupted in four states last week: Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.
