In a bizarre incident, a wanted criminal from Bihar’s Jamui district was arrested after living undercover in a mosque in Uttar Pradesh’s Deoria district for six years, disguised as a Muslim. Identified as Naveen Baneli, son of the late Jaynarayan Baneli, the fugitive had been evading police arrest since multiple criminal cases were filed against him, reported the Prabhatkhabar.
Naveen, accused in several serious crimes including murder, attempted murder, extortion, robbery, and dacoity, had a reward of Rs 50,000 on his head. To escape police action, he took shelter in a mosque, changed his identity to Mohammad Niyaz, and blended in with the local Muslim community.
According to police sources, Naveen was not only residing in the mosque but had gained the trust of the people there by actively participating in religious practices like offering namaz. Leveraging his education, he managed the mosque’s accounts, cleanliness, and electricity-related work, eventually earning himself a place to stay within the mosque premises.
His true identity came to light when Jamui police received a tip-off about his whereabouts. Upon investigation, his real name and Hindu background were revealed, shocking the mosque’s caretakers and local residents.
Although it remains unclear whether Naveen officially converted to Islam, police stated that he maintained contact with his family throughout the period. However, he never met them inside the mosque; instead, he would go out into the city to meet them, avoiding suspicion.
Jamui SP Madan Kumar Anand confirmed Naveen’s arrest and described him as a cunning and dangerous criminal. He added that the last case against Naveen was filed five years ago, and he had managed to remain hidden until now.
