Andhra Pradesh: 20 WhatsApp groups on police radar

RAJAHMUNDRY: Police arrested 44 people in connection with the violence in Amalapuram in Konaseema district on May 24. Cops have also identified 20 WhatsApp groups that were involved in mobilising crowds during the day.

Police are using latest technology to find out the backdoor operators and the admins of the groups which were active during the violence.

It has been found that most of the protestors who arrived in Amalapuram were from five surrounding mandals - Ambajipeta, Ainavilli, Ravulapalem, P Gannavaram and Allavaram. After giving instructions to the mobs, some of the groups were closed. Some other WhatsApp groups guided the youth on the direction they should go and what to do. It is learnt that around 5,000 protestors had tried to gather in Amalapuram during the grievance redressal programme (Spandana programme), but could not assemble due to the strict police vigil.

Talking to the media, Eluru range DIG Pala Raju said more people will be arrested on Sunday.