Sand Miner Escapes from police custody in Kota
Udupi: A sand miner succeeded in escaping from the custody of Kota police on March 21.
The Kota police were tipped off on Wednesday, March 20 morning about an illegal sand extraction activity near the River Sita in Hangarakatte. Sub-inspector Rafiq M, Airody Gram Panchayat Development Officer Subhash Kharvi and village accountant Manjunath raided the illegal sand mining area early Thursday.
During the raid, sand was found to be loaded in a truck. Ashok Poojary and Santhosh, who noticed the police, escaped from the spot. Manju, the truck driver, was arrested.
Sub-inspector Rafiq had left the station at around 3:30 pm. Truck driver Manju was given lunch and was allowed to wash his hands. Taking advantage of the opportunity, Manju pushed the head constable Ram Devadiga and fled from the station.
Driver Manju native of Shikaripura in Shivamogga district is a resident of Hangarakatte for the last few years. Police also seized sand worth Rs 5,000 and a tempo belonging to Ashok Poojary.
A case has been registered under Sections 224 and 353 of IPC in the Kota police station, said sources.