Srinagar, Apr 15 (NVI): Police have arrested five more persons in Sopore town of Jammu and Kashmir in connection with incidents of vandalism during recent student protests, officials said on Wednesday.
The arrests were made during overnight raids, taking the total number of those held in the case so far to 13, they said. Police have also identified 13 more individuals allegedly involved in the incidents and efforts are underway to apprehend them.
In a post on X, Sopore Police said the crackdown is continuing and all those involved in disturbing public order will be brought to justice.
Earlier, eight persons had been arrested and 25 others identified for their alleged role in vandalism and disruption of law and order during the protests.
According to officials, several vehicles belonging to locals, staff members and journalists were damaged, while some school property was also targeted during the unrest.
Police said strict action is being taken against those involved in unlawful activities, including damage to public and private property, and reiterated that no one will be allowed to disturb peace in the area.
Authorities have appealed to the public, particularly the youth, to maintain calm and refrain from any activity that could invite legal action, adding that the situation is being closely monitored.
The protests had erupted at a government girls’ higher secondary school in Sopore following allegations that a senior lecturer assaulted a student. An FIR has been registered against the accused teacher, who has also been placed under suspension pending inquiry by the education department, officials said.(NVI)
