Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, May 2: An attempt to murder was made on an auto-rickshaw driver, Abubakkar (50), a resident of Badagabettu, Udupi, on May 1.
According to the complaint, Abubakkar received a phone call from an acquaintance named Dinesh, requesting a ride from Madaga to Athradi. Acting on the request, Abubakkar set out in his auto-rickshaw and was returning from Athradi towards Madaga. At around 11:15 pm, while he was near the Athradi Gas Petrol Bunk on the main road, two individuals on a motorcycle began following him.
The accused reportedly abused Abubakkar using foul language and tried to stop his vehicle. When he did not stop and continued driving, one of the two men, who was seated on the back of the motorcycle, brandished a sword-like weapon. He allegedly threatened the driver, shouting, 'Ayan kaduppu budochchi' (a threatening phrase in the local dialect implying serious harm).
Fearing for his life, Abubakkar stopped the auto near Shedigudde, close to the residence of a local bus owner, and attempted to flee. At that moment, one of the accused swung the sword at him, but Abubakkar narrowly escaped. The other attacker allegedly smashed a bottle on the front glass of the auto-rickshaw.
The attackers appeared to have a clear intent to kill the victim, who managed to escape by jumping over a nearby compound wall and fleeing the scene.
Superintendent of police Dr Arun K stated that the incident was related to the recent murder case in Mangaluru, as revealed by the accused during interrogation.
Based on the complaint, a case has been registered at the Hiriyadka police station.
The police have arrested the accused, Sandesh (31), a resident of Bommara Bettu, and Sushanth (32), from Bapuji Dharkas, both from Hiriyadka. They have been produced before the court.
Investigation is ongoing.