Mangaluru police fire at accused in Kotekar bank robbery case after alleged escape bid
Mangaluru (Karnataka), Feb 1 (PTI): A suspect in the Kotekar Co-opeartive bank dacoity case was injured in a police shooting while allegedly attempting to flee during an evidence recovery operation in Ullal.
The accused, identified as Murugandi Thevar, had been taken into police custody until February 3 as part of the investigation into the robbery case registered at the Ullal Police Station.
During interrogation, Murugandi disclosed details regarding the planning and execution of the dacoity, including the involvement of a local associate, Shashi Thevar.
According to a press release, issued by police on Saturday, Murugandi had allegedly admitted that the trio had convened in November 2024 near Ajjanadka, within the Ullal Police Station limits, to plan the crime.
During the meeting, Shashi allegedly provided a firearm and shared information about the bank’s security lapses, which facilitated the robbery.
The police said Murugandi further claimed that Shashi had hidden the gun near the same location.
Acting on this information, a team led by the Ullal police inspector, accompanied by a sub-inspector and two constables, took Murugandi to the spot for evidence recovery and reconstruction of the crime sequence.
While at the scene, Murugandi allegedly assaulted Constable Manjunath, who was holding his restraint chain.
Police said he struck the constable and attempted to strangle him with the chain before making a bid to escape.
The Ullal police inspector initially fired a warning shot into the air.
However, when Murugandi continued to flee, the police fired a second shot, hitting him below the knee to prevent his escape.
Both the constable and Murugandi were taken to Yennepoya Hospital for treatment.
Police confirmed that their injuries are not life-threatening, and they are currently under medical care.
Incidentally, another accused, Kannan Mani, was also shot and injured by police when he attempted to escape after perpetrating the crime.
Police have stated that a separate case will be registered, in connection, with the escape attempt and subsequent action.
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Over 15 flights diverted at Delhi airport due to adverse weather conditions
New Delhi, Apr 11 (PTI): More than 15 flights were diverted at the Delhi airport on Friday evening due to inclement weather conditions.
The national capital witnessed strong dust storms and gusty winds.
A source said that over 15 flights were diverted at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA).
"Due to inclement weather conditions in Delhi, some of the flights at Delhi Airport are impacted. Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest flight updates," airport operator DIAL said in a post on X at 1915 hours.
IndiGo said Delhi and Jaipur are experiencing a dust storm, affecting takeoffs and landings and potentially causing air traffic congestion. This may lead to delays or diversions, the operator said in the post.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Delhi and the adjoining NCR, warning of adverse weather conditions in the coming hours.
