Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS)

Udupi, May 31: In response to a recent gang conflict in the city, which gained attention after a video went viral on social media, police have ramped up late-night patrols in Manipal, Udupi city, and rural areas.

Police have issued warnings to shops, hotels, bars, and pubs, instructing them to close their establishments on time. However, some small shop owners are claiming that the police are unfairly targeting them while neglecting to take action against larger businesses such as hotels, pubs, bars, and restaurants that operate beyond the permitted hours. Police officials have stated that strict action will be taken against any establishments, from small shops to pubs and restaurants, if they fail to close by 10 pm.

Amid the increased police presence during late-night patrols, reports have emerged of individuals dressed as Naga Sadhus causing trouble in a peculiar manner. These individuals, described as heavily built and ferocious-looking, with ash applied to their faces, reportedly arrive in cars, enter shops, take items without paying, and engage in other disruptive behaviour.

In one instance in Kinnimulky, members of the alleged Naga Sadhu gang entered an oil shop, took a can of oil, and attempted to steal money from a customer's shirt pocket before fleeing in their car. Similar incidents have been reported in Udupi and Manipal, prompting the public to call on the police to take action against this purported fake Naga Sadhu gang.