The Uttar Pradesh Police have uncovered a troubling development in the Sambhal violence case, with a forensic team recovering six empty cartridges bearing markings from Pakistan. Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar confirmed the discovery and stated that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) would assist in the probe.

Addressing the media, Kumar said, “The forensic team unearthed the cartridges during an inspection on Tuesday. Among them, one cartridge is marked with ‘POF,’ indicating Pakistan Ordnance Factory, while another is labeled ‘FN Star.’”

Describing the findings as “highly concerning,” Kumar emphasized that the incident warrants a deeper investigation with support from central agencies like the NIA.

The SP disclosed that miscreants had sabotaged CCTV cameras near the Jama Masjid before launching their attack, which involved stone pelting and firing at the police. “The destruction of CCTV cameras was deliberate. The attackers then fired bullets, evidence of which has now been recovered,” Kumar explained.

Retrieving the 9mm pistol believed to have been used in the incident remains a priority for investigators, who have already begun analyzing the DVR from damaged CCTV systems to extract key evidence. Kumar assured the media that the conspiracy was premeditated, and efforts to recover the firearms and identify the perpetrators are in full swing.

The violence erupted on November 24 during a controversial survey of the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid, which had reignited claims over its historical origins. The recovery of cartridges linked to Pakistan has added a sensitive dimension to the case, raising questions about potential external involvement.

“The presence of these cartridges points to a serious issue. We are leaving no stone unturned in uncovering the full extent of this conspiracy,” Kumar said.

The investigation continues, with forensic experts and agencies like the NIA working to trace the origin of the ammunition and assess any cross-border links. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the probe advances.