Sambhal Violence: Autopsy clears police in shooting deaths
Autopsy findings on four men killed in Sambhal clashes suggest police bullets did not cause their deaths, said Moradabad divisional commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh. He stated the injuries were inconsistent with the 9mm ammunition used by UP Police. No bullets were recovered during postmortems, as they exited the bodies.
The deceased—Ayan, Bilal, Naeem, and Kaif—sustained bullet wounds to the abdomen and chest. Antemortem injuries, such as bruises on knees, elbows, and foreheads, were found on three victims. Reports and photos of the wounds will undergo forensic examination to confirm the type of bullets. Officials reiterated that police only used rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse stone-pelting mobs.
Authorities extended the internet ban in the area for 24 hours as tensions persisted under heavy security deployment.
Violence Escalates: Mob Targets Police
Rioters attacked police during the clashes at Naksha Crossing on Sunday. Sub-inspector Mohd Shah Faisal reported in an FIR that the mob, armed with hockey sticks and canes, looted a magazine with 10 cartridges while attempting to seize his 9mm pistol. They torched his motorcycle, a patrol bike, and damaged CCTV cameras.
Faisal and two constables sustained injuries as the mob threw stones and surrounded the team. “The mob seemed well-prepared,” Faisal noted.
Clashes Linked to Mosque Survey
Violence erupted as protesters opposed a court-ordered survey of Shahi Jama Masjid, which the Hindu side claims was built over a temple during Babur’s reign. The clashes left four dead and over 20 police personnel injured.
Police have filed seven FIRs, naming six individuals and 200 unidentified rioters, as investigations continue.
