Hyderabad police arrest suspect in Mysamma temple vandalism in Puranapool
HYDERABAD: Hyderabad Police have arrested a suspect in connection with the vandalism of the Mysamma Temple in Puranapool. The incident triggered retaliatory violence, injuring four police officers and damaging another religious site.
The incident began late Wednesday night at the temple near Puranapool Darwaza. According to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Rajendranagar, an unidentified individual entered the premises around 11:30 PM and partially damaged a flexi banner and a Plaster of Paris (POP) idol in the temple veranda.
Kamatipura Police Station promptly registered a case and began collecting evidence, including CCTV footage. The investigation led to the identification and arrest of the primary suspect within 24 hours. “The suspect has been apprehended and is being interrogated to collect further evidence. This operation was conducted under the direct supervision of the Commissioner of Police, Hyderabad,” stated the DCP in a release.
Before the arrest was announced, the initial vandalism led to significant public unrest. A mob of about 300 people gathered and, in apparent retaliation, vandalized a nearby Chilla (Sufi shrine).
When police intervened, they were met with violence. “Four police personnel sustained severe injuries in this attack,” the police confirmed. A separate case has been registered regarding the mob attack and damage to the shrine. Investigators are reviewing CCTV and other video evidence to identify those involved.
Mysamma Temple vandalism
To address rumors and prevent further escalation, police clarified the extent of the temple damage. They emphasized that the vandalism was limited to the outer area. “Only the flexi and the POP idol in the temple veranda were partially damaged. The idols in the Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbha Gudi) are safe. The offender has not entered inside the main temple,” the DCP stated.
Earlier in another statement DCP strongly denied circulating rumors, stating, “There is absolutely no truth to the rumors being spread that the main idol was destroyed.”
Hyderabad Police have urged citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading or believing unverified information. They warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone spreading false information on social media or engaging in vigilante acts. Authorities report that the situation is under control and investigations into both incidents are ongoing.
