Overview

• Mohammed Zakir, a 19-year-old bike mechanic, was arrested on May 17, 2025, for twice removing the Israeli national flag displayed at Tank Bund in Hyderabad during Miss World 2025 celebrations.
• The flag was first removed on May 12 and replaced, only to be removed again on May 14, with both incidents leading to separate police cases under theft and public property damage statutes.
• Zakir allegedly posted a video of his actions on social media, which went viral, sparking public outrage and aiding police in identifying and apprehending him.
• The Hyderabad City Police confirmed that Zakir has been charged under the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act and theft provisions, while investigations continue into his motives and potential involvement of others.
• The Miss World 2025 pageant, which began on May 10 and runs through May 31, has brought heightened attention to the symbolic and diplomatic sensitivities of national displays at international events.