In a joint operation, the Gautam Buddh Nagar Police and the Special Task Force have detained the principal suspect connected to the recent outbreak of violence during a workers’ protest in Noida, officials confirmed on Saturday.

The individual, identified as Aditya Anand, was taken into custody at Tiruchirappalli Railway Station in Tamil Nadu. He had been evading arrest since the unrest and carried a cash reward of Rs 1 lakh for information leading to his capture.

Investigators allege that Anand played a central role in planning and fuelling the clashes that erupted during a labour agitation in the Gautam Buddh Nagar district. Authorities claim he was instrumental in mobilising demonstrators and escalating tensions at protest sites.

A criminal case had been lodged against him at the Phase-2 police station, and a local court had issued a non-bailable warrant in connection with the incident.

Police teams had launched coordinated search operations across several states in pursuit of the suspect before tracking him down in Tamil Nadu. Officials said further legal action is now being initiated following his arrest.

The investigation into the broader network involved in the protest-related violence is ongoing.