CCTV Captures Armed Masked Men Vandalizing Bhopal Cafe in Suspected Rivalry Attack

The attackers had their faces covered, making identification difficult.

Bhopal:

A group of masked individuals armed with swords, rods, and sticks stormed into a Bhopal cafe today in a rapid two-minute attack captured on surveillance footage. The viral video shows more than ten masked men entering Magic Spot Cafe in the Misrod area where they proceeded to destroy furniture and shatter glass before quickly departing.

A young couple inside the cafe managed to escape just as the attackers arrived on the scene.

According to police, preliminary investigation has eliminated robbery as a motive. "The perpetrators made no attempt to steal anything. Their sole purpose appeared to be vandalizing the establishment. The entire incident lasted under two minutes," DCP Zone-2 Vivek Singh informed NDTV. Investigators believe the attack stemmed from personal rivalry.

Cafe owner Saksham Giri has filed an FIR naming five specific individuals, including Yogi, Nikhil and Abhishek, along with several unidentified attackers. Authorities have already arrested two named suspects and detained three additional individuals for questioning.

Police sources reveal that the investigation suggests a connection to a previous altercation between student groups. On November 16, a dispute occurred in which a man named Yogi was allegedly assaulted by Abhishek Rajput and his associates. That incident had been reported at Katara Hills police station. Abhishek reportedly has connections to one of the cafe's business partners.

"Current evidence points toward rival group involvement. We are investigating all angles, including possible retaliation," stated DCP Singh.

Due to the attack's severity, joint teams from Misrod, Baghsewania and Katara Hills police stations have been assigned to the investigation. Officers are analyzing surveillance footage from surrounding areas, mapping potential escape routes, and examining past conflicts among the involved parties.

Though the attackers' covered faces complicate identification, police officials mentioned they have secured "certain clues" from the footage and witness statements collected thus far.

DCP Vivek Singh added, "Our teams are pursuing all available leads. While the rivalry angle appears strong, we're considering all possibilities. The investigation continues with support across multiple police stations."

Officials confirmed that three Magic Spot Cafe partners are also being questioned as part of the investigation, as one individual involved in the previous altercation is connected to them.

The case has been registered at Misrod police station with the investigation ongoing.

Authorities anticipate additional arrests as teams work to identify suspects from the surveillance footage.