Suspect arrested for tearing banner and vandalism in temple in Puranapul in Hyderabad

A person accused of tearing a flexible banner and a plaster of Paris (gypsum) idol at Puranapul Darwaza Temple was arrested by Hyderabad police within 24 hours of the incident, which led to mob violence and attack on police personnel.

According to the police, the incident was reported around 11.30 pm on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, when the accused entered the gate known as Puranapool Darwaza and partially damaged the flexible banner and POP idol placed on the temple veranda. A case was registered by the Kamatipura police and an investigation was initiated. Authorities collected CCTV footage and other evidence from the scene.

According to the technical information and clues obtained during the investigation, the suspect was tracked and taken into custody on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Police said the person did not enter the sanctum sanctorum of the temple and the main idol remained untouched. Senior officials announced that the allegations on social media about the destruction of the main idol were unfounded and aimed at creating unrest.

Shortly after the vandalism came to light, tensions rose in the area and a crowd of approximately 300 people gathered near the temple. The mob damaged a nearby religious structure and attacked police personnel deployed to control the situation. 4 police officers were seriously injured in the violence.

A separate case was registered in connection with the attack on the police and vandalism by the gang. Using CCTV footage and video footage, investigators identified several people involved in the violence and police said strict legal action would be taken against all those responsible.

Officials stated that the situation in Puranapul district is now completely under control. Hyderabad police appealed to citizens to remain calm, not believe rumors or malicious propaganda and avoid sharing unverified content on social media. They also warned that strict action would be taken against people who spread fake news or take the law into their own hands.