Accused Assaults Police Constable on Duty During Spot Investigation in Kotekar Co-operative Bank Dacoity Case
Mangaluru: In a significant development regarding the Kotekar Co-operative Bank dacoity case (Crime No. 07/2025), the Investigating Officer from the Ullal Police Station has taken two key suspects into custody for further questioning. The suspects, identified as Murugandi Thevar and Yosuva Rajendran, are currently being held until February 3, 2025, as the investigation intensifies.
During the custodial inquiry, Murugandi Thevar provided critical insights into the planning and execution of the dacoity. He disclosed that in November 2024, he, along with Yosuva Rajendran and a local associate named Shashi Thevar, convened at Ajji Nadaka, which falls within the jurisdiction of the Ullal Police Station. It was during this clandestine meeting that Shashi Thevar introduced a firearm and divulged vital information concerning security vulnerabilities at the target location, thereby facilitating the meticulous planning of the robbery.
Murugandi further revealed that Shashi Thevar had concealed the weapon at the meeting site, a detail that has prompted law enforcement to take immediate action. Acting on this information, a police team comprising the Ullal Police Inspector, one Sub-Inspector, and two Constables was dispatched to Ajji Nadaka for evidence recovery and a thorough site investigation. Accompanied by Murugandi Thevar, the team aimed to gather further evidence related to the crime.
However, upon arrival at the designated location, an unexpected turn of events unfolded. Murugandi Thevar, in a sudden act of aggression, assaulted Constable Manjunath, who was responsible for his restraint. Reports indicate that he struck the Constable in a sensitive area and attempted to strangle him using the restraint chain in a desperate bid to escape.
In light of this violent confrontation, the Ullal Police Inspector took immediate action by firing a warning shot into the air to deter the fleeing suspect. Despite this precautionary measure, Murugandi Thevar continued his attempt to evade capture. In response to the escalating situation, a second shot was fired, targeting below his knee to incapacitate him.
Following the incident, both Constable Manjunath and Murugandi Thevar were promptly transported to Yenepoya Hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. Fortunately, medical personnel have reported that both individuals are currently out of danger and are receiving the necessary care for their injuries.
In light of the violent altercation, law enforcement officials have announced that a separate case will be registered concerning the incident involving Murugandi Thevar’s assault on the Constable. Further investigations are underway to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding both the dacoity case and the subsequent confrontation.
The police department remains committed to ensuring justice in the Kotekar Vyavasaya Seva Sahakari Sangha dacoity case and is taking all necessary measures to bring those responsible to account. Community members are urged to remain vigilant and report any information that may assist in the ongoing investigation.