Karnataka Police Arrest Three in Organised Cattle Theft Case, Invoke KCOCA
In a significant development in Udupi, Karnataka, police have arrested three accused individuals in a case involving cattle theft and threats, subsequently invoking the stringent Karnataka Control of Organised Crime Act (KCOCA). This action follows a thorough investigation that revealed the crime was executed in an organised manner, highlighting the seriousness of the offence.
Details of the Cattle Theft Incident
According to police reports, the incident occurred on September 29 last year at approximately 2:15 AM. The accused trespassed into the cattle shed of complainant Jayashree Poojary located at Hadiyangadi in Shirlalu village, Karkala taluk. When the complainant awoke and confronted the intruders, they threatened her with a sword, demonstrating a brazen disregard for law and safety.
The perpetrators then proceeded to cut the ropes of three cattle, loaded them into a vehicle, and transported them away. It was later confirmed that the stolen cattle were slaughtered, with the total estimated value of the loss amounting to Rs 35,000. This act not only represents a financial blow to the victim but also underscores the violent nature of the crime.
Legal Charges and Initial Arrests
A case was promptly registered at the Ajekar police station under multiple sections, including:
- Sections 329(3), 329(4), 309, and 324(4) read with 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
- Sections 3 and 25 of the Indian Arms Act
- Section 11(1)(D) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act
Following an investigation led by the Karkala circle police inspector, the accused were identified as Mohammed Yunis, 31, from Karkala; Mohammed Iqbal alias Ikku, 29; and Nasir alias Mohammed Nasir, 28, from Moodubidire. They were arrested, produced before the court, and initially released on bail, pending further legal proceedings.
Invocation of KCOCA and Subsequent Arrests
Further investigation uncovered that the accused committed the offence as part of an organised group, leading police to invoke the Karnataka Control of Organised Crime Act against them. This move signifies the escalated legal response due to the organised nature of the crime, which involves systematic planning and execution.
As a result, the bail previously granted to the accused was cancelled. Mohammed Yunis and Nasir alias Mohammed Nasir were re-arrested, along with a fourth accused, Shoukat Ali, 36, also from Moodubidire. All individuals have been produced before the court and are currently in judicial custody, awaiting trial under the enhanced charges brought by the KCOCA.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by Karnataka police to combat organised crime, particularly in rural areas where such thefts can have severe impacts on livelihoods. The use of KCOCA in this instance sends a strong message about the state's commitment to tackling criminal networks involved in agricultural and livestock-related offences.
