Sambhal Mosque Clash: Police Crackdown Sends Chills Through Rioters, Investigation Intensifies

In connection with the recent violence in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, police have intensified their investigation, identifying over 100 stone pelters through videos obtained from mobile footage, CCTV, and drone cameras. Among these, 27 individuals, including some minors, have been arrested. The investigation is progressing with multiple angles and questions being scrutinized. SP Krishna Kumar stated firmly that anyone who attacked the police with stones will be sent to jail, ensuring that no innocent person faces action. The investigation focuses on several key aspects: determining who organized the crowd near Jama Masjid on the day of the violence, identifying those who incited the mob, and analyzing mobile data from the area to track active numbers during the incident. Police are recovering DVR footage from vandalized CCTV cameras to identify the rioters and have sent 27 mobile phones to forensic labs to retrieve deleted data for clues on pre-planned violence. Additionally, social media activity, including WhatsApp chats and groups linked to gathering calls, is under scrutiny. A special team is reviewing CCTV, mobile, and drone footage to identify culprits, while statements from locals are being recorded to aid the probe. Notably, the arrested include three women. Prominent names like Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rahman Barq and Suhail Iqbal, son of MLA Iqbal Mahmood, have also surfaced in the case. Complaints filed by families of four youths who lost their lives in the violence have added further dimensions to the investigation.