Dandupalya Gang Member Apprehended After Nearly Three Decades on the Run
In a significant breakthrough, the Mangaluru police have successfully arrested Chikka Hanuma, also known as Chikka Hanumanthappa, a notorious member of the infamous Dandupalya gang. This arrest comes after an extensive manhunt spanning nearly 29 years, linked to a chilling double murder case that dates back to 1997.
Details of the Arrest and Accused
The arrest was executed in Madanapalle, located within the Annamayya district of Andhra Pradesh. The accused, identified as Chikka Hanuma alias Chikka Hanumanthappa alias K Krishnappa alias Krishna, is 55 years old and originally hails from Dandupalya village in Hoskote taluk of Bengaluru district. Following his capture, he was promptly produced before the court, which subsequently remanded him to judicial custody. City Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy C H confirmed these developments in a statement issued on Thursday.
Background of the 1997 Double Murder Case
Chikka Hanuma was listed as the sixth accused in a gruesome double murder case that shocked the community. On the night of October 11, 1997, members of the Dandupalya gang allegedly forced their way into a residence named Anwar Mahal, situated near Urwa Marigudi Cross. The gang, which included individuals such as Doddahanuma alias Hanuma, Venkatesh alias Chandra, Munikrishna alias Krishna, Nallathimma alias Thimma, Krishna alias Dandupalya Krishna alias Nagaraj, Chikka Hanuma, Krishnadu alias Krishna, and Venkatesh alias Ramesh, is accused of brutally murdering Louiza D'Mello, aged 80, and Ranjith Vegas, aged 19. After committing these heinous acts, the perpetrators fled the scene, taking with them a quantity of gold ornaments.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Subsequent to the incident, a thorough investigation was conducted, leading to the filing of a chargesheet before the court. However, Chikka Hanuma managed to evade arrest by fleeing to Andhra Pradesh without making an appearance in court. In 2010, the JMFC II Court in Mangaluru issued a long-pending warrant (LPC) against him, as highlighted by Commissioner Reddy. This warrant remained active until his recent apprehension.
Broader Criminal Involvement and Police Recognition
Police authorities have revealed that the accused is reportedly implicated in approximately 13 murder and robbery cases across various locations in Karnataka. Efforts are ongoing to gather further details regarding his extensive criminal activities. In recognition of the diligent efforts that led to this arrest, Police Commissioner Reddy commended the officers and staff involved in the operation. He has recommended their names for suitable rewards, acknowledging their dedication and perseverance in bringing a long-standing fugitive to justice.
