Malpe Police Nab Accused in Violent Harbour Robbery of Fish Trader
In a swift operation, Malpe police have arrested an accused in connection with a shocking robbery targeting a fish trader at Malpe Harbour. The incident, which involved a brutal attack using chilli powder and a knife, resulted in the theft of a gold chain valued at approximately Rs 6 lakh.
Details of the Early Morning Assault
According to the complaint filed by Dayananda Kunder, the victim, the ordeal began in the early hours of Friday. Kunder reported for work as usual around 3 am. At approximately 4:30 am, he went to use a toilet near Sahukar Bar in the harbour area. Upon returning towards the harbour around 4:40 am, an accused approached him under the guise of enquiring about fish.
The situation quickly escalated when the accused threw chilli powder on Kunder's face with the clear intent to rob him. The attacker then dragged the victim for some distance. Soon after, two more accused joined the assault, threatening Kunder with a knife and demanding the gold chain he was wearing.
Violent Robbery and Threats
When Kunder refused to hand over the chain, the trio assaulted him on the face and back, forcibly dragging him and snatching the gold chain. The stolen item weighed about 6 sovereigns (approximately 37.6 grams), with an estimated value of Rs 6 lakh. The accused further threatened to kill Kunder if he reported the incident to the police, adding to the trauma of the attack.
Police Response and Arrest
Based on Kunder's complaint, Malpe police registered a case under Sections 309(6), 351(2) read with 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Under the guidance of Udupi Subdivision DSP Belliappa KU and Malpe circle inspector Ramachandra Nayak, a dedicated team led by PSI Eeranna Shiragumpi and PSI Hussain Saab Chapparkar, along with other staff members, launched an investigation.
The police team successfully arrested the accused the same evening. The arrested individual has been identified as Muttanna, a 20-year-old from Kanakagiri taluk in Koppal district, who was currently residing in a rented room near Kodavoor. In a significant breakthrough, the stolen gold chain was recovered from his possession.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
The accused was promptly produced before a court, and further investigation is underway to identify and apprehend the other individuals involved in the robbery. SP Hariram Shankar confirmed these details, highlighting the coordinated efforts of the police force in addressing this serious crime.
This incident underscores the risks faced by workers in harbour areas and the importance of swift police action in ensuring justice and public safety. The recovery of the stolen property provides some relief to the victim, but the case remains active as authorities continue their probe.
