Prime Accused in Godhra Rioting Arrested in Mumbai After Eluding Police for Weeks
In a significant breakthrough, the Panchmahal police have successfully apprehended the prime accused in the violent rioting that erupted in Godhra on September 19. The unrest was allegedly triggered by a controversial social media post, leading to widespread chaos and attacks on police personnel in the town.
Viral Video Sparks Violent Unrest During Navratri Festival
The accused, identified as Zakir Zabha, a content creator, had been summoned to the police station earlier on the day of the incident. Authorities warned him against posting any content that could potentially disturb law and order, especially during the sensitive period of the Navratri festival. However, after leaving the police station, Zabha allegedly feigned injury and uploaded a video accusing the police of assault. This video quickly went viral on social media platforms, inciting mobs to target police personnel and resulting in severe rioting across Godhra.
Accused Flees Town and Evades Capture Through Elaborate Hiding
Following the outbreak of violence, Zabha fled Godhra on the same night, managing to remain untraceable despite extensive search efforts by the Panchmahal police. His family members also vacated the town, and his mobile phone was switched off, complicating the investigation. The Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Panchmahal police gathered crucial intelligence indicating that Zabha was hiding in Mumbai. Further probes revealed his specific location in Bhiwandi, where he had reportedly taken up employment at a toy factory and was residing near Nashik Road.
Undercover Operation Leads to Dramatic Arrest in Bhiwandi
A dedicated police team, operating in plainclothes, conducted meticulous surveillance to confirm Zabha's identity and monitor his movements. Using a rickshaw and a two-wheeler for a discreet approach, the team successfully nabbed him. Preliminary investigations uncovered that after escaping Godhra, Zabha survived by begging and performing odd jobs for approximately a month and a half before securing work as a labourer at the factory.
Court Grants Police Remand for Further Interrogation
The accused was subsequently brought back to Godhra and handed over to the B Division police station for a thorough investigation. He was produced before a court on Wednesday evening, where the police were granted a 10-day remand for interrogation. This arrest marks a critical step in addressing the social media-fueled unrest that disrupted peace in Godhra, highlighting the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to maintain order during festive seasons.
