In a significant move, the assistant commissioner of Savanur has issued a strict externment order against a key accused in a two-year-old gang rape case from the Hangal region of Haveri district. The order mandates the accused to leave the district for a full year.
Externment Order Issued After Police Petition
Assistant Commissioner Shubham Shukla passed the externment directive on Thursday against Sameeulla Abdul Wahid Lalanavar. This action came in response to a petition filed by the Haveri Superintendent of Police in June, seeking to remove the accused from the district due to ongoing threats and anti-social behavior.
The hearing conducted by AC Shukla resulted in a verdict to banish Sameeulla to Yadgir district for one year. The order carries specific conditions that the accused must strictly follow during this period.
Stringent Conditions of the Externment
The externment order stipulates several mandatory rules for Sameeulla. He is required to report daily to the Hunasagi police station in Yadgir. Furthermore, he must inform the same police station whenever he needs to attend court hearings for his pending cases.
The order also restricts his entry into Haveri district. If entry is absolutely necessary, he is permitted to enter only via four specified routes: Muddebihal, Hunagund, Gadag, and Hubballi.
Background of the Hangal Gang Rape Case
The case dates back to January 8, 2024, when a horrific gang rape incident occurred near Nalkur Cross in Hangal. A First Information Report (FIR) was subsequently registered at the Hangal police station on January 11, 2024.
The FIR alleged that Sameeulla and six others gang-raped a woman at a lodge near Nalakar Cross. In total, the case involves another 13 accused individuals, making it a complex legal matter with multiple perpetrators.
Post-Bail Conduct Led to Externment
After their arrest and investigation, the accused, including Sameeulla, were recently released on bail. However, their conduct after release raised serious alarms. According to police reports, the accused allegedly traveled in an open jeep from Haveri sub-jail to Akki Alur, shouting and threatening witnesses involved in the case.
The police further stated that after being granted bail, Sameeulla continued engaging in anti-social activities. These activities reportedly included teasing girls, moral policing, kidnapping, and involvement in physical fights, creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation in the area.
After thoroughly reviewing the complaint and evidence of continued misconduct, Assistant Commissioner Shubham Shukla imposed the externment sentence on Sameeulla, as detailed in the official verdict. This action aims to prevent further harassment and ensure the safety of witnesses and the local community while legal proceedings continue.
