Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi
Udupi, Sep 7: Two men have been arrested in connection with an attempt to ram their SUV into police officers who were intercepting them near the Hejamady toll plaza, Udupi district, in an ongoing illegal cattle transport case, police said.
The arrested accused have been identified as Mohammed Azeem from Kaup and Mohammed Raziq from Bajpe. The duo was taken into custody and produced before the court, which has sent them to judicial remand.
The incident occurred on August 5, when an SUV carrying cattle tied in an allegedly cruel and inhumane manner approached the toll gate. Upon inspection by police, the accused reportedly became hostile and attempted to drive the vehicle directly at the officers.
According to police sources, when questioned, one of the accused reacted aggressively and asked, “Have you followed us all the way here just for this?” before allegedly trying to run over the personnel.
One of the accused, Sharoj from Surathkal, was detained on the spot. However, others in the vehicle managed to flee, allegedly injuring police staff in the process.
The police team involved belonged to the Gangolli police station, including a PSI (Police Sub-Inspector) and accompanying staff, who had stationed themselves at the toll plaza based on credible intelligence regarding a cattle theft ring.
A formal complaint was filed by the Gangolli PSI, following which a case was registered at the Padubidri Police Station. The accused Azeem and Raziq, who had been absconding, were later apprehended and presented in court.
Police have launched a manhunt for the remaining accused, including a man identified as Safghan from Kaup.
Recalling the incident, Udupi SP Hariram Shankar said the altercation began after police intercepted an SUV transporting stolen cattle near Sunkadakatte, during a routine operation.
The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests are expected.