Police in Mangaluru have detained two individuals following an alleged extortion attempt targeting a cattle owner in Mulki. The incident, which involved an assault, has drawn attention but authorities have been quick to dispel any notions of communal tension, highlighting solidarity among villagers.
Assault During Extortion Bid
The episode unfolded at Angaragudde in Mulki. According to Mangaluru City Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy, three persons from a neighbouring village allegedly targeted Abu Bakar, who owns a significant livestock of three pairs of buffaloes, five milch cows, and an oxen. The accused reportedly assaulted Shamshuddin, the father of Abu Bakar, during their attempt to extort money. Abu Bakar intervened in the altercation and managed to rescue his father from the assailants.
Community Support and Police Response
Commissioner Reddy firmly denied any disruption to communal harmony due to the incident. He emphasised that people from different communities live peacefully in the village. "There are both Hindus and Muslims in the village living peacefully together, and Hindu neighbours came in support of Abu Bakar's family. They came to the police station, and a case will be booked based on their complaint," he stated. Following the incident, police have detained two of the accused, while a third remains absconding. Notably, Abu Bakar's buffaloes are prize-winning animals, having secured accolades in a recent kambala competition.
Viral Video Aids Investigation
The investigation has been aided by a video of the assault that went viral on social media platforms. Police confirmed that the availability of this footage has helped them ascertain the sequence of events to a considerable extent. Further details are expected to emerge after all video footage is examined. In a twist, police noted that one of the accused attempted to project himself as a victim by undergoing a medical examination at a hospital. The commissioner added that two of the accused have previous criminal cases registered against them, including for serious offences. A comprehensive investigation is currently underway, with appropriate legal action to follow.
