[Hyderabad], 16/1 : The Hyderabad City Police have confirmed the arrest of a suspect in connection with the vandalism incident at the Puranapul Darwaza Mysamma temple, bringing a sense of calm to the Old City area this evening. In a significant development reported today, officials stated that the accused was apprehended within 24 hours of the incident, which had briefly triggered unrest and mob violence in the locality.
As of this evening, the situation in Puranapul remains fully under control, with senior police officials maintaining a strong vigil. Following the arrest, the police issued a stern clarification to quell circulating misinformation: the main idol inside the sanctum sanctorum (Garbha Gudi) remains completely untouched and safe. Authorities emphasized that the damage was limited to a flex banner and a Plaster of Paris (POP) idol situated in the temple’s outer verandah.
“The offender did not enter the main temple. There is absolutely no truth to the rumors being spread that the main idol was destroyed,” a senior police official stated in a press briefing today, urging citizens to refrain from sharing unverified content on social media.
The arrest follows a tense Wednesday night where the vandalism incident led to a gathering of approximately 300 people, resulting in damage to a nearby religious structure and injuries to four police personnel who intervened to restore order. Today, however, the focus has shifted to the swift police action and the restoration of normalcy. Heavy police deployment was observed throughout the day, particularly ensuring that Friday prayers passed off peacefully without any untoward incidents.
Investigators are currently interrogating the suspect to ascertain the motive behind the act. Two separate cases have been registered: one regarding the temple vandalism and another concerning the subsequent mob violence and attack on police officers. The police have identified several other individuals involved in the mob violence through CCTV footage and have warned of stringent legal action against all perpetrators.
Residents have been advised to carry on with their daily activities without fear, as the zone has been secured. The swift apprehension of the prime suspect has been widely seen as a crucial step in de-escalating tensions in the sensitive zone.
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