In a series of swift operations under an ongoing anti-crime drive, Bhopal Police arrested three individuals in two separate incidents involving illegal possession of sharp weapons and other criminal activities.
The first arrest was made after a video went viral on social media on the night of June 16, showing a man brandishing a sword in the Itwara area. Acting promptly, a team from Talaiya Police Station launched a night operation and apprehended the accused, identified as Shoyab Qureshi (35), son of Salim Qureshi. He was located near Keved’s Garden around 3:00 AM and attempted to flee upon spotting the police, but was successfully captured. Authorities recovered a 33-inch iron sword from his possession.
Qureshi, a resident of Javed Bhai’s house near Panchayati Mosque under Talaiya police limits, has a known criminal history. His record includes multiple serious offenses registered under Sections 147, 148, 149, 307, 323, and 427 of the IPC by Hanumanganj Police and under the Arms Act (Section 25) by Talaiya Police.
In a separate early morning crackdown, Shahjehanabad Police arrested two suspects near Hari Mazar during a routine patrol, thwarting a suspected illegal gambling operation. The suspects, identified as Junaid alias Bachcha (25), a resident of Anjum Ara Building, and Sonu alias Bhura (29), from Kavitpura, attempted to flee but were apprehended after a brief chase.
A sharp-edged knife was recovered from Junaid, who was subsequently booked under Section 25 of the Arms Act by Tilajamalpura Police. Junaid has a long criminal history with more than 15 registered cases, including theft (IPC 379), assault (IPC 294, 323, 506), and violations under the Arms Act, Excise Act, and Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act across police stations in Nishatpura, Kohefiza, and Gautam Nagar.
Sonu alias Bhura also has a criminal record dating back to 2008, including multiple theft cases and recent offenses under the BNSS Act.
Senior officials confirmed that these arrests are part of a broader strategy to curb anti-social elements and ensure public safety across Bhopal. Investigations are ongoing.
