Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)
Mangaluru, Feb 6: Family members of the notorious killer Praveen Kumar (60), who murdered four of his close relatives in Vamanjoor in 1994 and was recently released from prison, have requested police protection due to threats on their lives by the ex-convict.
In an appeal submitted to the city police commissioner, the family members of the former convict Praveen stated, “We received information in May 2023 that Praveen had been released from prison based on his good behaviour. On November 7, he called his younger brother and threatened him with his life. All family members are living in fear. Police should monitor his movements and prohibit him from entering Dakshina Kannada district.
Praveen Kumar at his tailoring shop
“We approached the city police commissioner, the home minister, and the governor in 2022 when we were informed that Praveen would be released from prison. His wife also pleaded for him not to be released. However, he was released. We once again appealed for protection.
“We informed the police when Praveen called his younger brother and threatened him with his life. However, we did not receive any response from the police. They have not visited our house so far. Praveen, who has murdered our close relatives, will not hesitate to kill anyone. We fear he will seek revenge on us. We have many senior citizens in our family, so the police must provide us with protection.
“We have learned that Praveen is running a tailoring shop near Hindalga prison. Society is receiving a wrong message by portraying Praveen as a good person. Therefore, concerned individuals should pay attention to our plea,” the family members appealed.
On the contrary, Krishna Kumar, the jail superintendent of Hindalga jail, stated, “Praveen Kumar, the accused in the serial murder case in Vamanjoor, was released due to his good conduct. As his family members objected to his release, he started a tailoring shop near the prison. Four people are employed in his shop, and he has a thriving business.”
Praveen Kumar was released from Hindalga prison in Belgaum several months ago. He decided to establish a tailoring shop near the prison as his family members opposed his return to their native place. Being skilled in tailoring, Praveen has gained significant work from the prison staff, officials, and nearby citizens. Jail officials have reported that he has shown remorse for his actions.
Praveen, though a native of Uppinangady, mostly resided in his aunt's house in Vamanjoor as he was a tailor by profession. On the night of February 23, 1994, he was at his aunt’s house. At that time, there was a threat of thieves in Vamanjoor. His aunt and other household members believed that Praveen was there to protect them. However, Praveen had ulterior motives. He was addicted to alcohol and engaged in single-number lottery gambling. He murdered four family members, including his aunt, with a knife, stole gold and cash, and fled from the scene.