Kolkata, Dec 17 (NationPress) Another individual has been apprehended in relation to the vandalism that occurred during Lionel Messi's event at Salt Lake Stadium on December 13, bringing the total number of arrests to six, according to the Bidhannagar police on Wednesday.

In the meantime, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) established by the West Bengal government on Tuesday has initiated its inquiry into the situation.

As per police reports, the sixth suspect was taken into custody late Tuesday night. The individual has been identified as Rupak Mandal. The police indicated that this suspect will be presented before the Bidhannagar Sub-Divisional Court and will face charges of vandalism, creating disorder, and disrupting public peace at the Yuva Bharati Krirangan.

Authorities have also indicated that several other individuals are suspected to have been involved in the incident, and they may be questioned as needed. There are indications that the number of arrests could rise in the days ahead, pending the completion of the review of CCTV and other video evidence.

Investigators are focused on determining how the situation escalated on the day of the event, identifying those who directly engaged in the vandalism, and uncovering who might have incited the violence from behind the scenes. It has been reported that investigators are thoroughly examining the actions of each arrested individual.

Given the gravity of the situation and concerns about security measures at Yuva Bharati, one of the most esteemed sports venues in the state, the government has assembled the SIT. Their investigation will concentrate on how the turmoil unfolded at the Yuva Bharati Krirangan, identifying any lapses in security and potential negligence by responsible parties.

Administrative sources stated that members of the SIT visited the Yuva Bharati Krirangan on Wednesday to evaluate the site, gauge the extent of the vandalism, and assess the damage incurred. Following their assessment, a comprehensive report regarding the security protocols on the day of the incident will be compiled.

In light of this occurrence, the administration is contemplating enhancing security protocols for future large-scale events at the Yuva Bharati Krirangan. This may involve ensuring sufficient police presence, heightened security checks at entry points, and the implementation of advanced technology to manage crowds.

On December 13, the Salt Lake Stadium was packed well before Messi's event commenced, with fans eagerly awaiting a glimpse of their idol. When Messi arrived, a surge of people surrounded him, attempting to capture photographs. Amidst the presence of Messi's security detail, chaos ensued, leading to complaints from spectators who claimed they could not even view him properly.

Messi departed the field after only 22 minutes, prompting the onset of vandalism. Spectators threw chairs and bottles onto the field from the stands, with many breaking down gates to access the field.

Vandalism was rampant in the galleries and restrooms of the Yuva Bharati Krirangan. In response to this incident, the state government established an investigative committee. Event organizer Satadru Dutta was detained, and on Tuesday, Aroop Biswas resigned as the state Sports Minister, while top IPS officials, including DGP Rajeev Kumar, received show-cause notices.