Daijiworld Media Network - Sullia (MS)

Sullia, Apr 19: In a press note, superintendent of police (SP) of Dakshina Kannada district B M Laxmi Prasad on Saturday April 18 issued a clarification with regard to a report alleging 'harassment' and 'extortion' by Bellare cops that was reportedly broadcast by a news channel.

"On April 18, a report on visual media accused Bellare police of harassing people, alleging that they were demanding Rs 1,000 and country chickens as bribe to allow them to go to hospital. The report allegedly pointed fingers at head constable Balakrishna of Bellare police station.

"The SP of Dakshina Kannada district, who took serious note of the allegation, conducted an inquiry on the matter led by the circle inspector of Sullia, and has come to the conclusion that the report shown on visual media is far from truth," the press note states.

"PSI of Bellare and personnel were carrying out their duties as per the orders of the state government to prevent the spread of coronavirus pandemic in the state. On April 17, they were on duty at Ninthikallu. During checking, owner of a private Omni car bearing registration number KA 21 N 2553 was fined as he violated the lockdown rule against running private vehicles on road. During this incident, head constable Balakrishna coordinated with the PSI.

"Similarly, all other vehicles that violated the lockdown rules were fined. These incidents are recorded on CCTV. Later some miscreants, who came to know about the fine imposed on the owner of the Omni, misused the opportunity and made a video with the help of driver Pradeep of the said Omni and another man identitified as Sundar. This clearly shows that the miscreants have tried to tarnish the image of the police who discharged their duties sincerely," the SP said.

"The report that appeared on visual media and social media is completely baseless and far from truth. Investigation with regard to this incident is in progress. Strict action as per law will be taken against the culprits," he said.