10 Arrested in Ghaziabad for Distributing Swords After Shocking Video Goes Viral
Ten people were arrested in Ghaziabad after a video showing the distribution of swords went viral, prompting swift police action
A major law-and-order concern surfaced in Ghaziabad after a video showing the public distribution of swords went viral on social media, prompting swift police action. Acting on the footage and subsequent public outrage, authorities arrested 10 individuals in connection with the incident, stating that the act posed a serious threat to public safety and communal harmony.
The controversy erupted after a video clip began circulating widely on platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). The footage allegedly showed a group of individuals openly distributing swords in a public area of Ghaziabad, with several onlookers present. The visuals sparked alarm among residents and social media users alike, who questioned how such weapons could be displayed and handed out so openly.
Within hours of the video gaining traction, Ghaziabad Police took cognisance of the matter. Senior officials confirmed that teams were formed to identify those seen in the clip and trace the location where the incident occurred. Using video evidence, local intelligence, and surveillance inputs, police were able to zero in on the suspects.
Police officials later confirmed that 10 people were arrested in coordinated raids across different parts of the district. Several swords and other sharp-edged weapons were recovered during the operation. According to authorities, the accused did not possess valid licences or permissions to carry or distribute such weapons in public.
An officer involved in the investigation said the arrests were made to prevent any escalation and to send a clear message that public display or circulation of weapons would not be tolerated. “Such actions can create fear, provoke violence, and disturb communal peace,” the official stated.
The accused have been booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Arms Act, which criminalise unlawful possession, display, and distribution of weapons. Police are also examining whether additional sections related to public nuisance or unlawful assembly may apply, depending on the findings of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities indicated that the swords appeared to be ceremonial or traditional in design but stressed that intent and legality matter more than appearance. “Even symbolic weapons can be misused or incite fear if displayed irresponsibly in public,” a senior police officer said.
One of the key questions investigators are focusing on is why the swords were being distributed. Initial inquiries suggest the act may have been linked to a local event, gathering, or celebration, though police have not officially confirmed this. Officials are also probing whether the distribution was meant as a provocation, a show of strength, or an attempt to gain attention on social media.
Police sources said they are questioning the arrested individuals to determine whether the act was pre-planned and whether more people were involved. Authorities are also investigating the source of the swords and how they were procured in bulk.
The viral video triggered widespread concern among residents of Ghaziabad, many of whom expressed unease over the ease with which weapons were displayed in public spaces. Parents, shopkeepers, and commuters took to social media to demand stricter monitoring and enforcement.
“Seeing swords being handed out so casually is frightening,” said a local resident. “It makes you wonder about safety in public places.”
Several citizens praised the police for acting swiftly, while others called for stricter penalties to deter similar acts in the future.
In the wake of the arrests, Ghaziabad Police issued a strong warning against the public display or circulation of weapons, whether for celebration, symbolism, or intimidation. Officials reiterated that any such act without explicit permission is illegal and will invite strict action.
Police also urged citizens to report suspicious activities immediately and to refrain from sharing videos that could further spread panic or misinformation. “While sharing videos can help bring issues to light, it can also amplify fear,” an officer said.
This incident once again highlights the growing role of social media in modern policing. While platforms can sometimes be misused to glorify or sensationalise dangerous acts, they also serve as powerful tools for accountability.
In this case, the viral nature of the video ensured rapid visibility and prompted authorities to act quickly. Police officials acknowledged that digital evidence played a crucial role in identifying the accused and reconstructing the sequence of events.
The Ghaziabad arrests come amid a broader push by law enforcement agencies across Uttar Pradesh to curb the illegal possession and display of weapons. In recent months, police have intensified checks, raids, and surveillance to prevent incidents that could disrupt public order.
Officials say visible enforcement is necessary to deter copycat incidents, especially in an era where individuals sometimes seek online attention through risky or illegal behaviour.
The arrested individuals are expected to be produced before a magistrate, where police may seek further custody for questioning. Authorities have indicated that additional arrests are possible if evidence points to a larger network or organisers behind the act.
Police are also reviewing CCTV footage from nearby areas and analysing digital trails to ensure that all those involved are brought to justice.
Beyond legal consequences, the incident serves as a reminder of the responsibility citizens bear in maintaining peace and safety. Acts that may be intended as symbolic gestures or displays of bravado can have serious repercussions, especially in densely populated urban areas.
Authorities have appealed to community leaders and organisers to ensure that events remain lawful and non-threatening. “Public safety must always come first,” officials stressed.
As investigations continue, the Ghaziabad sword distribution case stands as a stark example of how quickly irresponsible actions can spiral into serious law-and-order issues—and how vigilant policing, combined with public awareness, remains essential in preventing such incidents.
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