In two recent incidents in the city, about seven persons were arrested by the city police, only to be set free later. Crime Branch personnel arrested four youths for stone-throwing from Gheekanta area on Monday. As the incident had taken place in the jurisdiction of Shahpur police station, they were handed over to the police there. However, all the four were set free by the police.

This has sparked off tension between the Crime Branch and the city police. The Crime Branch personnel have complained to their bosses that the situation could have been brought under control if those arrested were kept behind bars.

Law enforcing agencies have another problem on their hands -- public ire. An officer requesting anonymity said they could not afford to catch youths on the spot as it would lead to further tension in the areas.

Political pressure is another hurdle. Police are forced to release youths under pressure from local political workers.

Recently, in Kalupur area, some corporators and a former Member of Legislative Assembly , led a 700-strong crowd to secure the release of three youths. They shouted slogans against the police and demanded that those arrested be freed immediately. Additional Police Commissioner V V Rabari had a tough time tackling the mob and, fearing more trouble, he later decided to free the youths.