Hyderabad police arrested a man accused of tearing a flexi banner and damaging a plaster of Paris idol at the Puranapul Darwaza Temple. The incident was reported around 11.30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. The accused entered the temple gateway and partially damaged a banner and an idol placed in the verandah. The main idol inside the sanctum sanctorum was not harmed, officials confirmed. A case was filed by Kamatipura police, and authorities began investigations, collecting CCTV footage and other evidence. Using technical inputs, the suspect was traced and taken into custody on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Claims on social media about the destruction of the main idol were called false by senior police officers, who said these rumors aimed to create unrest. After the vandalism, a mob of about 300 people gathered near the temple. The crowd damaged a nearby religious structure and attacked police personnel deployed to manage the situation. Four police officers were seriously injured. A separate case was registered against those involved in the mob violence. Police identified several people responsible through CCTV and videos. Strict action will be taken against all who participated in the violence. Officials stated the situation at Puranapul is now fully under control. The Hyderabad police urged citizens to stay calm, avoid believing rumors or sharing unverified social media posts. They warned of strict action against those spreading fake news or taking the law into their hands.