Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Dec 27: Bajpe police have registered a suo motu case for the illegal transport of beef and filed an FIR against two youths for alleged moral policing following an incident on Malali–Narlapadavi Road on Friday morning that left an 11-year-old girl injured.

According to the FIR and findings of the preliminary enquiry, Abdul Sattar of Mullarpatna was travelling on a motorcycle with his minor daughter at around 10 am, allegedly carrying approximately 19 kg of beef packed into 35 packets, without valid bills or authorisation. The incident occurred within the limits of Bajpe police station.

Police said that a Tata Sumo carrying Sumit Bhandari (21) and Rajat Naik (30), both residents of Yedapadavu, intercepted Sattar’s motorcycle. During the confrontation, the motorcycle reportedly toppled, causing the child to suffer a burn injury to her leg after coming into contact with the silencer. Sattar is said to have abandoned the vehicle and fled the spot, while local residents rushed the injured girl to hospital.

“The child’s statement was recorded at the hospital. She stated that their vehicle was blocked and that her father was beaten with hands,” a police officer said, adding that the exact nature and extent of the alleged assault are still under verification.

Bhandari and Naik were later summoned to the police station for enquiry and questioned separately. During questioning, Naik, who identified himself as a medical representative, claimed that the duo had gone to Maharshi Clinic to deliver medicines. However, police said the claim did not hold up. “On verification, the doctor concerned stated that no medicines were delivered at the clinic,” the officer said.

The two men also told investigators that they were on their way to a temple and had stopped to ask for directions. “When questioned separately, they were unable to name the temple they intended to visit,” police said.

Based on the facts gathered so far, police have booked a case of moral policing against Bhandari and Naik. Simultaneously, a suo motu case has been registered for transporting beef without proper documentation, which is an offence under applicable laws. “It is the duty of the police—not private individuals—to act against illegal transport of beef from unauthorised sources,” the officer added.

Investigators believe Sattar had been delivering beef regularly in the area. Efforts are under way to trace him to ascertain the source of the meat and whether it was procured from an authorised facility. “Once Sattar is apprehended, we will be able to establish where the meat was brought from,” police said.

Police also clarified that there is, at present, no evidence linking any other individual to the incident. “We do not know anything about the involvement of Avinash Suvarna at this stage. If the investigation finds he is not involved, action will be taken against those who spread unverified information,” the officer warned.

Further investigation is ongoing, and police said additional details, including confirmation of injuries, will be placed on record as the case progresses.