UP Police recover US-made cartridges in violence-hit Sambhal, authorities strengthen security measures

A team investigating the Sambhal violence site seized four empty cartridges, two of which were manufactured in the US, police said

PGurus Newsdesk

December 6, 2024

A team investigating the Sambhal violence site seized four empty cartridges, two of which were manufactured in the US, police said

Sambhal violence probe reveals shocking details

The Uttar Pradesh Police announced on Thursday the recovery of fired cartridge cases marked “Made in USA” in the violence-affected Sambhal district. The cartridges were discovered during a thorough cleaning and evidence-collection operation conducted jointly by the police and municipal authorities.

Evidence recovery operations

Sambhal Superintendent of Police (SP) Krishan Kumar Bishnoi revealed that the police recovered two fired cases of 7.65 mm and two of 12-bore ammunition inscribed with “Made in USA.” Additionally, an earlier search yielded a fired case from the Pakistan Ordnance Factory. “So far, a total of 10 banned cartridges have been discovered,” he stated.

The recovery is part of ongoing efforts to gather evidence following the unrest that erupted on November 24 during an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) examination of a Mughal-era mosque, which resulted in four deaths and injuries to police personnel and locals.

Heightened security ahead of Friday prayers

Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Muniraj G of Moradabad Range outlined enhanced security measures ahead of Friday prayers. These include the deployment of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), rooftop monitoring, barricades, and drone surveillance.

Additionally, local police, the District Magistrate (DM), and the SP conducted a flag march to assure residents of their safety. New CCTVs have been installed in areas where previous ones were damaged. The authorities also held meetings with Peace Committee members to promote harmony.

Anti-encroachment drive in Chandausi

Separately, the district administration is conducting an anti-encroachment drive in Chandausi. District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya clarified that the operation has been ongoing for a month and follows Supreme Court guidelines. “Action is taken only after alternative arrangements are provided to displaced individuals,” Pensiya said.

Krishna Kumar Sonkar, Executive Officer of the Chandausi Municipality, added that disputed land near the waterworks is being measured, and encroachments are being systematically cleared. “The initiative aims to make Chandausi clean and appealing,” he noted, stating that accommodations will be provided to displaced individuals despite no prior notices being issued due to the absence of authorized representatives.

Sambhal’s ongoing recovery

The November 24 violence highlighted tensions in the district, stemming from an ASI survey of a Mughal-era mosque. The aftermath has seen increased police vigilance, public outreach, and administrative actions to restore peace and normalcy.

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