Ghaziabad Police Identify Second Suspect in YouTuber Stabbing Case
In a significant development, Ghaziabad police have identified the second suspect involved in the stabbing of YouTuber and businessman Saleem Wastik in Loni. The suspect has been named as Ghulfam, who is the brother of Zeeshan, the primary accused who was shot dead in an encounter on Sunday night.
Investigation Details and CCTV Footage
DCP (rural) Surendra Nath Tiwari provided insights into the investigation, stating that police tracked the assailants through CCTV footage. "With the help of CCTV cameras, police identified the faces of both accused, and first identified one person as Zeeshan," he said. Zeeshan was killed during an encounter on Sunday night, in which two head constables suffered bullet injuries. Police reported that one of Zeeshan's associates managed to escape in the dark.
Tiwari elaborated on Ghulfam's role, noting that he accompanied Zeeshan during the attack last week. "Ghulfam also went with Zeeshan with the intent to kill Saleem. Ghulfam was riding the bike and Zeeshan was riding pillion when they went to attack the YouTuber," he explained. Police are currently verifying whether Ghulfam was present with Zeeshan during the gunfight on Sunday night.
Reward and Manhunt Efforts
On Monday, police announced a reward of Rs 1 lakh for information leading to Ghulfam's arrest. "More than five teams have been formed to nab him. Police conducted raids at several places in Delhi-NCR and at his house in Amroha, but he was not present," the DCP stated. The intensive manhunt underscores the urgency of the case.
Weapon Recovery and Motive Investigation
A senior officer revealed that a gun recovered from Zeeshan was "made in Italy", and police are investigating how he obtained it. The officer added that the two suspects were believed to have been angered by Wastik's "ideology", and that they watched extremist videos before the attack. Zeeshan's phone has been sent for forensic examination to gather further evidence.
This case highlights ongoing efforts by Ghaziabad police to address violent crimes and ensure justice for victims like Saleem Wastik.
