In a significant development, the Uttar Pradesh Police Special Investigation Team (SIT) has named Shariq Sata, a Dubai-based gangster, as the mastermind behind the November 24 Sambhal violence. The violence, which erupted over a court-ordered survey of a Mughal-era mosque, led to the deaths of four people, and has been a source of significant unrest in the region. The SIT’s investigation has intensified, with chargesheets filed in several cases related to the violence, and 12 cases officially registered.

Shariq Sata: Mastermind and Dubai Connection

Shariq Sata, believed to be operating from Dubai, is suspected of orchestrating criminal activities within India, including the Sambhal violence. The SIT uncovered information linking Sata to a plot to assassinate prominent advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain during the disturbances. Ghulam, an associate of Sata, reportedly confessed that the conspiracy to kill Jain was part of a broader criminal plan tied to the Sambhal violence.

As per Sambhal SP Krishna Kumar Vishnoi, Shariq Sata is believed to have been in constant contact with his associates in India, coordinating the violence. The SIT’s investigation has also revealed that Sata was involved in organizing activities aimed at inciting further unrest in the region. The police further discovered evidence of a weapons cache that included 9mm cartridges originating from the Pakistan Ordnance Factory. This finding has raised concerns about the possible international reach of the gang.

Arrests and Charges Filed in Connection with the Violence

The Sambhal violence, which led to the deaths of several individuals and caused widespread panic and chaos, saw 12 cases filed by the UP Police. The SIT has made significant progress in investigating the incident, with chargesheets filed in six cases. As of the latest updates, 80 individuals have been arrested, while 79 accused remain at large. Police officials have emphasized that no innocent person will be targeted, and all actions will be based on solid evidence.

A crucial aspect of the investigation involves political connections, particularly the involvement of Sambhal MP Ziaur Rehman Barq. The police have requested data from WhatsApp and Meta as part of their probe into the alleged links between politicians and the violence. While police have not uncovered significant political connections, they have noted the involvement of several criminal groups.

Legal Action Against Shariq Sata

The Uttar Pradesh Police have announced their intention to pursue legal action against Shariq Sata under BNS Section 48 (Abetment outside India for offence in country), following the arrest of his close aide, Ghulam. This section allows authorities to target individuals operating from foreign territories who are found to be influencing criminal activities in India.

In relation to Ghulam’s arrest, the police have disclosed that the accused was in contact with Sata via mobile and WhatsApp exchanges, though it has been clarified that this alone does not constitute a criminal offense. Investigations are ongoing to confirm further criminal activities, including the assassination attempt on Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain. Police recovered a pistol and other evidence linking the conspiracy to the violence.

Sambhal Violence: The Bigger Picture

The Sambhal violence is part of a larger pattern of criminal activity associated with gangsters like Shariq Sata who are alleged to orchestrate violence from abroad, influencing criminal events in India. Investigations continue to probe into possible connections with other notorious gangs, including the possibility of links to Dawood Ibrahim, though no direct evidence has yet been found.

The SIT’s efforts have focused on gathering strong evidence to ensure that justice is served. The police have been meticulous in their approach, with no stone left unturned in their quest for the truth behind the violence that left Prayagraj and its surrounding areas shaken.

Conclusion

As the investigation into the Sambhal violence continues, the Uttar Pradesh Police are determined to bring the masterminds and their associates to justice. The SIT is following a systematic approach, gathering evidence, conducting arrests, and addressing the political, criminal, and social implications of the violence. The focus remains on ensuring justice and protecting public order while investigating the larger role of gangsters like Shariq Sata in orchestrating violence from abroad.

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