Gujarat: Road accident escalation leads to murder, arson; 20 detained​

Ahmedabad, April 18 Around 15 to 20 people were detained after a violent flare-up in Dhandhuka town of Ahmedabad district following a road accident that escalated into a fatal stabbing and subsequent arson, police said on Saturday.​

According to officials, the incident began when a motorcycle ridden by Samir, who was travelling with his wife, was involved in a minor collision with a local youth from the Bharwad community.​

Speaking to IANS, Ahmedabad Rural SP Om Prakash Jat said: "The incident initially started as a road accident, after which a confrontation broke out between those involved. Samir made some provocative remarks during the exchange, which further escalated tensions."​

SP Jat further stated that members of the local community subsequently gathered and proceeded towards Samir’s residence.​

However, at that time Samir and his family were not present at home.​

"Rizwan, who was present at the house, allegedly attacked one individual identified as Dharmesh Gamara from the Bharwad community with a knife, causing him serious leg injuries and heavy bleeding. He was taken to hospital, where he later died," he told IANS.​

Following the death, tension escalated in the area and groups of people took to the streets.​

Police said an agitated crowd resorted to vandalism and set fire to around eight to 10 shops and tyres in different parts of the town, particularly in market areas.​

The incident led to panic, with traders shutting down their establishments and residents remaining indoors. Heavy police deployment was immediately rushed to the spot, including senior officers and teams from specialised units.​

Authorities carried out intensified patrolling in sensitive areas to prevent further violence and restore order.​

Police confirmed that both Samir and Rizwan have been arrested, while 15–20 individuals have been detained in connection with the violence.​

"Around 15–20 people have been detained in the incident. More FIRs and action will take place tonight. Both Samir and Rizwan have been arrested. I appeal for peace in the area," Jat said.​

Officials said further FIRs are likely to be registered based on ongoing investigation and evidence collection.​

Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from the area and recording statements of eyewitnesses to identify others involved in the arson and vandalism.​

Fire brigade teams were deployed from nearby towns to extinguish the blaze after several shops were set on fire.​

The body of Dharmesh Gamara has been sent for a post-mortem examination at RMS Hospital in Dhandhuka.​

Police have stepped up security in sensitive areas and appealed to residents to maintain calm and not circulate rumours on social media.​

Officials said the situation in Dhandhuka is now under control, though security forces remain deployed as a precaution while investigations continue.​

--IANS

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