On Monday evening, a disturbing incident unfolded in Faridabad’s Sector 78, where a mob brutally attacked two young men after mistaking them for spies. The victims, Ayush Kumar, a BTech student at Lingayas Vidyapeeth, and his friend Avi, had gone to Triveni Society to conduct a photoshoot for their startup.
Ayush explained in his police complaint that he and Avi were taking pictures on a rooftop when about 15 men confronted them. The mob accused them of flying a drone in the area. Despite their repeated attempts to explain, the men refused to listen. “We were on the rooftop taking photos with our phones when we heard people approaching. As we descended, we met a group accusing us of flying a drone. Despite our explanations, Bittu Khatana struck my leg with a stick and threatened to kill us. The group beat us with sticks and set my scooter on fire,” Ayush said.
When police officers reached the spot to rescue the boys, the mob attacked them as well. Sub-inspector Yashpal said the officers had to intervene forcefully to save the victims. They managed to arrest Bittu Khatana, a mobile phone shop owner, whom witnesses identified as the main instigator. Khatana had spread rumors after claiming he saw suspicious lights in an abandoned building inside the society.
Police filed an FIR against the attackers with charges including unlawful assembly, causing hurt, assaulting police personnel, obstructing official duties, and damaging property by fire. Authorities promised strict action against everyone involved.
The incident reflects rising tension in Faridabad, fueled by frequent reports of drone sightings in the region. These reports have sparked fear and suspicion among residents, raising anxiety levels. To address the matter, Police Commissioner Satendra Kumar Gupta urged the public to stay calm and cooperate with law enforcement. On Tuesday, DCP Rajkumar met village leaders to discuss the issue. Officers advised residents to report drone sightings instead of taking matters into their own hands.
The attack shows how misinformation and panic can quickly escalate into violence. Faridabad’s proximity to Punjab, a hub for drone technology and innovation, has created curiosity but also fear among locals. The assault on Ayush and Avi, who only wanted to capture photos for their startup, reminds the community of the need for trust and cooperation with authorities. Police stressed that open dialogue and patience will help prevent such incidents in the future.
