Panchmahal police arrest 17, file FIRs against 88 for attacking, vandalising Godhra police station

Tension prevailed in Godhra on Friday night when members of a community attacked and vandalised the Godhra B Division police station in Panchmahal district. The police responded by arresting 17 people and filing cases against 88 individuals. 

According to police sources, considering the upcoming Navratri festival, a social media influencer was called to the police station and requested not to post any controversial content on social media to maintain peace.

However, the influencer had previously created a video with a religious poster, which some people misunderstood as the reason for the police summoning the influencer. 

Due to this misunderstanding, a large crowd gathered near the police station. As the situation escalated, the crowd vandalised Police Chowki No 4 and pelted stones. The police had to resort to a lathi charge to disperse the crowd, during which some officers suffered minor injuries. The attackers even threw chairs and other items from the police station into a gutter.

Following the incident, Panchmahal police took swift action and conducted operations overnight to apprehend the attackers. Panchmahal Superintendent of Police Haresh Dudhat said, “Regarding yesterday’s incident, FIRs have been filed against 88 people, and 17 accused have been arrested so far. Ten teams from different districts are tracking the remaining suspects through surveillance.”

The SP further added, “Currently, all markets in Godhra have reopened peacefully, and there is a calm environment. Patrolling is ongoing in all areas. There is no need for anyone to be misled by rumours. Navratri is approaching, and as always, we organise peace committee meetings with members of all communities, and this year’s meetings will also take place.”

The police have strengthened security in the western parts of Godhra. To prevent any undesirable incidents, foot patrolling is ongoing. The police have appealed to residents to avoid rumours and cooperate in maintaining peace. They have also warned against paying attention to false information circulating on social media. Currently, the situation in Godhra is completely peaceful, and the police are making every effort to maintain law and order.