In a heartbreaking incident at Manneri village in Badami taluk, a young soldier and a minor boy lost their lives after drowning in the Malaprabha River.

The victims have been identified as Shekhappa (15), a resident of Hansanur village in Bagalkot, and Mahantesh (25), a soldier from Benal village in Gadag district. According to reports, Shekhappa had entered the river for a bath but began to struggle in the water. Mahantesh, who was nearby, immediately rushed to help and jumped in to save the boy. Tragically, both were swept away by the current and drowned.

Rescue teams from the fire brigade and local police reached the scene and later recovered both bodies from the river.

The Badami Police have filed a case and are continuing their inquiry into the incident. The community is mourning the loss of two lives, with many hailing the soldier’s selfless act of bravery.