Arunachal: Itanagar Police arrest two for vandalism; CCTV footage released to identify others

The Itanagar Police have arrested two individuals, Shiva Sonam Liyak (29) and Tado Techi Tara (23), in connection with the vandalism of the Genesis Watch Store at Akashdeep Market Complex. 

Superintendent of Police (SP) Rohit Rajbir Singh confirmed the arrests and announced that a case has been registered, with investigations underway to apprehend others involved.

The incident, which has been widely circulated on social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, occurred on Tuesday afternoon around 4:00 PM. According to the SP, a group of 10-15 individuals, some reportedly masked, forcibly entered the store in the absence of the owner. 

They assaulted the staff, vandalized the premises, and caused significant property damage estimated at several lakhs.

The assailants also seized two DVRs containing CCTV footage and abducted two store employees. 

The abducted staff members were later taken to the residence of Lezen Gyadi, where they were unlawfully detained. Upon police intervention, the staff members were released, and the abductors fled the scene.

Also Read: Arunachal: Watch store vandalised, staff abducted in broad daylight attack in Itanagar

Earlier, store owner Takam Tanio lodged a complaint regarding an incident that occurred on January 7, 2025. 

According to the complaint, ANSU President Lezen Gyadi, accompanied by three others, attempted to take two watches without payment. After intervention by the owner, Gyadi paid for one watch and left.

The Itanagar Market Welfare Association (IMWA) also submitted a representation, raising concerns about potential threats to the Akashdeep Market Complex. The police have merged this representation with the ongoing investigation.

The case has been registered under Itanagar P.S. Case No-05/2025 for multiple offences under the BNS, 2023. Efforts are being made to identify additional suspects using footage retrieved from a leftover DVR.

The police have released CCTV footage from the scene and urged the public to help identify the remaining individuals involved. 

SP Singh assured that the investigation is being actively pursued to ensure accountability and justice.

The incident has sparked widespread concern, with calls for stricter measures to ensure the safety and security of business owners and market complexes in the city.