Hyderabad, Jan 16 (NationPress) The Hyderabad Police have apprehended the individual accused of vandalizing a flexi banner and damaging an idol within the temple grounds at Puranapul, an act that incited unrest in the locality.

Late Thursday night, law enforcement officials announced that they had made significant progress within a mere 24 hours following the incident at the Puranapul Darwaza Mysamma Temple.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Rajendra Nagar, indicated that investigations are ongoing, and the suspect is currently being interrogated to gather additional evidence. This operation was carried out under the direct oversight of the Hyderabad Police Commissioner.

Further details regarding the investigation's progress are expected to be disclosed later on Friday.

In the meantime, police conducted a flag march in the Puranapul area to reassure the local population.

Members of the City Armed Reserve, along with the Rapid Action Force, participated in the flag march equipped with riot gear.

Heavy police presence has been maintained in Puranapul and its neighboring regions, which are deemed to be communally sensitive.

Authorities noted that the situation in the area remained calm, with no further incidents reported following Wednesday night's vandalism at two religious sites and the subsequent clash between a mob and law enforcement.

In anticipation of Friday prayers, police have intensified their patrolling efforts, with senior officials actively monitoring the situation.

Legal cases have been registered concerning the vandalism at the temple and the mob's attack on law enforcement.

According to police reports, an unidentified individual entered the temple on Wednesday night and partially damaged a flexi banner and an idol situated in the temple’s veranda.

In response to this act, a mob of approximately 300 individuals gathered and vandalized a nearby 'Chilla', attacking police officers who were attempting to restore order. Four officers sustained serious injuries during this confrontation.

A separate case has also been filed related to the assaults on police personnel and the vandalism of the religious site.

Investigators have identified the suspects using CCTV footage and other recordings, with a promise of strict legal repercussions against them.

The DCP clarified that only the flexi banner and the idol in the Puranapool Darwaza Mysamma Temple veranda suffered partial damage. The idols located in the Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbha Gudi) remain unharmed.

“The offender did not penetrate the main temple. The rumors suggesting that the principal idol was destroyed are entirely false,” stated the DCP.