Cyberabad police have arrested five men linked to a violent mob attack in Attapur on Sunday night, which escalated into a communal clash and left three police officers injured. The accused, who identified themselves as “Gau Rakshaks” (cow protectors), allegedly stopped a vehicle transporting two bulls from Dabirpura to Bharat Nagar around 9:30 PM on June 8.
According to police, the men contacted others through a WhatsApp group named “Kattar Hindu Sena” before assaulting the driver. “They pelted stones, raised slogans like ‘Jai Shri Ram,’ and physically attacked the driver. One individual struck him in the stomach with a stone. They also stole his mobile phone and Rs 2,000 in cash,” said an officer from the Attapur police station.
The situation quickly escalated when local residents gathered in support of the driver. Sloganeering from both sides intensified, with some responding with chants of “Allahu Akbar,” triggering a round of stone-pelting that injured three police officers.
Police intervened and took the injured driver and the animals into protective custody. Cyberabad Police Commissioner Avinash Mohanthi confirmed that five individuals have been arrested and sent to jail, while eight others, including the main accused identified as Ambadas, remain at large.
The arrested men face multiple charges, including rioting, robbery, and inciting communal hatred. Efforts are underway to locate and apprehend the remaining suspects.
Reacting to the incident, Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi condemned the violence. “These are not cow protectors—they are hate criminals trying to disturb the peace in Hyderabad. Strong action must be taken,” he said.
DCP C.H. Srinivas of Rajendranagar Zone assured the public that strict measures would be taken. “No one will be allowed to take the law into their own hands. We will ensure all those involved are brought to justice,” he stated.
