New Delhi: The Turkman Gate violence case has taken a serious turn with police invoking the charge of ‘Attempt to Murder’ after reviewing visuals showing large stones being hurled at police personnel during the clash. With the latest action, the total number of arrests has increased to 16, police officials confirmed.
Investigators are currently examining over 450 video clips circulated across WhatsApp, Instagram and YouTube, which allegedly played a key role in inciting violence and mobilising crowds. Based on these videos, notices have been issued to at least 10 social media influencers, directing them to join the investigation.
Police sources said some individuals identified in viral videos are still absconding, and sustained efforts are underway to trace and apprehend them. Authorities believe that misleading posts and provocative content were deliberately circulated to inflame tensions in the Turkman Gate area, leading to large-scale stone-pelting.
Following clearance operations, debris has been completely removed from the affected stretch, and traffic has been restored on the main road. However, inner lanes leading into Turkman Gate remain sealed as a precautionary measure. Officials stated that the situation on the ground is now largely under control, with a visible police presence continuing in sensitive pockets.
The decision to add the Attempt to Murder charge was taken after police assessed the size and nature of stones thrown, which they say could have resulted in fatal injuries. “This was not random violence. The intent appeared dangerous and life-threatening,” a senior officer said.
Earlier, authorities had indicated that nearly 150–200 people, including women, were allegedly involved in the violence. While women stone-pelters have been identified through video evidence, no arrests of women have been made so far, officials clarified.
Police have reiterated that no accused will be spared, and that every video, CCTV clip, drone visual and body-cam recording is being scrutinised to establish individual roles. Further arrests are expected as the investigation progresses.
