Gang of Eight Robs Engineer of Gold Chain on Karnataka Highway
In a brazen late-night highway robbery, a gang of eight men allegedly blocked a car near Kulavalli Cross on the Puna-Bengaluru National Highway-48, close to Kittur in Karnataka, and robbed a Mumbai-based engineer of a gold chain valued at Rs 2 lakh. The incident has sparked significant concern among motorists about safety on this busy national route.
Details of the Highway Robbery Incident
The victim, identified as Vaibhav Mohan Vyavahare, 30, a resident of Mumbai, was travelling with his colleague, Devendra Vitthoba Kadam, when the robbery occurred. According to the police complaint, the duo had refuelled at a petrol pump near Kittur and driven a short distance past Kulavalli Cross when two men on a two-wheeler intercepted their car.
One of the assailants allegedly hurled a large stone at the vehicle, forcing it to an abrupt stop. The remaining members of the gang then swiftly surrounded the car, threatened the occupants, and snatched a 15-gram gold chain from Vyavahare. The accused also conducted a thorough search of the vehicle, including the trunk, before fleeing the scene. Although they checked Kadam, nothing was taken from him.
Timeline and Police Response
On February 20, Vaibhav and Kadam were travelling by car from Mumbai to a college in Suratkal, Mangaluru, when they were targeted in this shocking robbery. Following the traumatic incident, the victims drove to Alnavar and immediately alerted the police. Personnel from the Kittur police station later inspected the scene and registered a formal case of robbery.
The superintendent of police and other senior officers also visited the spot to assess the situation and coordinate the investigation. This high-level response underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating this crime on a major national highway.
Impact and Safety Concerns
The robbery on NH-48, a crucial and typically busy national highway, has triggered widespread concern among motorists and local residents. Such incidents highlight potential vulnerabilities in highway security, especially during late-night hours when traffic may be lighter.
Authorities are urging travellers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly. The investigation is ongoing, with police working to identify and apprehend the suspects involved in this daring highway heist.
