Accused Shaved Beard to Avoid Arrest, But Police Tracked Him Using Video Footage and Technical Evidence
Bhagalpur: Police investigating the violence and stone-pelting that took place at Tilkamanjhi Chowk in Bhagalpur during the Bihar Bandh on July 25 have uncovered a surprising detail. According to the investigation, 20-year-old Mohammad Zeeshan, a resident of Badre Alampur under the Habibpur police station area, allegedly changed his appearance in an attempt to evade arrest.
Police said Zeeshan had a beard during the incident but shaved it off afterward to make identification difficult. Despite the change in appearance, investigators were able to identify him using video footage, still photographs, and other technical evidence. He was subsequently arrested along with R.C. Ansari, a resident of Shahjangi.
According to police officials, efforts are continuing to identify and apprehend other individuals allegedly involved in the violence. CCTV footage, mobile phone videos, and digital evidence are being thoroughly examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
Violence Erupted During Bihar Bandh
On July 25, demonstrations were held across several districts of Bihar during the statewide Bihar Bandh. In Bhagalpur, a large number of protesters gathered at Tilkamanjhi Chowk.
According to officials, the protest turned violent, leading to incidents of stone-pelting, vandalism, and clashes with police. Additional security forces were deployed to bring the situation under control, and a detailed investigation was launched to identify those allegedly involved in the unrest.
Appearance Allegedly Changed to Avoid Arrest
During the investigation, police found that Mohammad Zeeshan had allegedly altered his appearance after the incident.
Officials said he was seen with a beard in videos recorded during the violence but later shaved it off, apparently in an attempt to make it more difficult for investigators to recognize him.
However, police stated that the change in appearance did not prevent identification because investigators relied on multiple sources of evidence rather than appearance alone.
Video Footage and Technical Evidence Proved Crucial
Investigators analyzed CCTV recordings from the area, video footage captured by media personnel, mobile phone recordings made by local residents, and still photographs taken during the incident.
The visual evidence was cross-verified with other technical and digital records, enabling police to confirm Zeeshan's identity. A police team then conducted raids and arrested him.
During the same operation, R.C. Ansari of Shahjangi was also taken into custody in connection with the case.
Police Continue Interrogation
Police are questioning both arrested individuals to determine how the violence was organized, how many people were involved, and whether any organized group played a role in the incident.
Investigators are also examining the specific role each accused allegedly played during the violence and whether they have any previous criminal history.
Search for Other Suspects Continues
Police officials said the arrests are only the beginning of the investigation.
Using CCTV footage, digital evidence, and witness statements, authorities are continuing to identify other individuals allegedly involved in the violence. Raids are being conducted at multiple locations to locate additional suspects.
Strong Emphasis on Digital Investigation
The investigation relies heavily on modern technology. In addition to CCTV footage, police are analyzing mobile phone data, social media activity, and other digital evidence.
Officials said that advances in forensic and digital investigation techniques make it increasingly difficult for suspects to evade identification simply by changing their appearance.
Maintaining Law and Order Is the Priority
The district administration has reiterated that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found responsible for damaging public property, attacking police personnel, or engaging in violence.
Officials emphasized that while peaceful protest is a democratic right, violence and taking the law into one's own hands will not be tolerated.
Appeal for Public Cooperation
Police have appealed to members of the public to share any videos, photographs, or information related to the incident that could assist the investigation.
According to officials, public cooperation can play an important role in identifying suspects and ensuring a thorough investigation.
The investigation into the violence that occurred at Tilkamanjhi Chowk in Bhagalpur during the July 25 Bihar Bandh has led to significant developments. Police allege that Mohammad Zeeshan attempted to evade arrest by shaving his beard and changing his appearance. However, investigators identified him through video footage, still photographs, and other technical evidence before arresting him along with R.C. Ansari. Police said the investigation is ongoing and that additional suspects will face legal action if evidence establishes their involvement. The case highlights how modern investigative techniques can help identify suspects even when they attempt to disguise their appearance.
