Hubballi: Youth Murdered in Parking Lot of Bar
Hubballi: A 24-year-old man was murdered in the parking lot of a bar under Vidyanagar Police Station limits in Hubballi-Dharwad Commissionerate around midnight. The police, who had detained three accused, were forced to open fire early Tuesday morning when they attempted to attack the police and escape while being escorted.
City Police Commissioner Shashi Kumar told reporters that the victim, Akash Valmiki, a resident of Old Hubballi, was attacked by three men armed with lethal weapons at the parking lot of Golden Bar. The incident occurred as Akash was leaving the parking area, and he succumbed to severe injuries sustained in the brutal assault. The people present at the spot informed the police. CCTV footage captured the attack, leading to a swift police response.
“Based on the footage, our nakabandi staff and night patrol teams were alerted. We received information that three suspects were heading toward the railway station. The police team immediately apprehended them," the Commissioner said.
They were identified as Abhishek, Yellappa, and Vinod.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the crime involved a gang of 7-8 people who had longstanding enmity with Akash. The suspects had a history of disputes with him, including an argument a year ago. The accused reportedly wanted to maintain their dominance in the area and be involved actively in resolving land disputes, collecting rent, and seizing vehicles over unpaid loans.
The gang had planned to regroup after the attack, initially at the railway station before 4 am, or alternatively near the PHC premises after 4 am. Acting on this information, police teams reached the location.
“While being escorted by the police, the accused attempted to escape and even attacked the officers. In response, the police opened fire to control the situation and prevent the accused from escaping,” the Commissioner added.
Two sub-inspectors fired about nine rounds, initially in the air, but had to act decisively and fire at the accused as they did not heed. The police managed to secure the accused. The injured police personnel and the suspects are receiving medical treatment.
The arrested trio has prior criminal cases against them, and investigations indicate that the murder was premeditated.
“The gang had been monitoring Akash’s movements and executed the attack with a well-planned strategy. The number of those involved in the case could be more. We are investigating,” Commissioner Kumar stated.
The police are continuing their investigation to trace the other individuals involved in the crime.