Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Apr 8: Mangaluru city police have cracked the murder case of rowdy-sheeter Arif, a resident of Kinya Ajjinadka, with the arrest of seven accused individuals. The investigation has revealed a meticulously planned conspiracy involving local executioners and international handlers.
The arrested accused have been identified as Rifat, Juttu Ashfaq, Khalil, Shakir, Irfan, and Rizwan, who were directly involved in the assault, and Irshad, who is accused of providing logistical support.
The execution
On the morning of March 27, Arif was traveling on his bike toward the Bunder fish market. As he reached the Thokkottu flyover, a car tailing him intentionally rammed into his motorcycle from behind. When Arif fell to the ground, the group armed with lethal weapons intercepted him and hacked him to death before fleeing the scene.
City Police Commissioner Sudhir Kumar Reddy stated that the investigation has unmasked a deep-rooted network behind the brutal killing. Irshad, one of the arrested, played a pivotal role in arranging accommodation for the killers and transporting them to the crime scene. Preliminary investigations suggest that old rivalry was the primary motive behind the murder.
International links and technical support
The probe has uncovered significant international involvement. An accused named Suhail allegedly arranged a rental car for Rifat before fleeing to Saudi Arabia. Another individual, Arshad, reportedly supplied the weapons and acted as a scout, monitoring police movements and providing real-time updates to the gang.
The gang utilized advanced digital methods to evade detection. Ashveer, an accused operating from Dubai, reportedly provided international WhatsApp numbers to the gang by sharing OTPs. This allowed them to switch numbers as soon as they suspected police surveillance, ensuring uninterrupted communication.
Financial backing from abroad
Investigations confirmed that Mustafa and Ashveer, based abroad, provided the financial resources required for the accused's travel and stay while on the run.
The police commissioner added that more people are suspected to be involved in the case. A manhunt has been launched to apprehend the remaining accused who are currently at large.