Udupi: In a significant development, the Udupi police have apprehended seven individuals in connection with the abduction of seven fishermen during a deep-sea fishing expedition on February 26-27. The incident prompted a formal complaint at the Malpe police station.

The arrested suspects, hailing from Bhatkala, are identified as Subramannya Kharvi (34), Ragavendra Kharvi (38), Harish Narayana Kharvi (40), Nagesh Narayana (42), Gopal Madav (38), Santhos Devayya (43), and Lakshman (50). They will be presented before the judge, facing charges of robbing and abducting fishermen aboard the Krishnananda boat.

The harrowing incident unfolded when the boat’s net became entangled with the fan, causing it to stall. Seizing the opportunity, the perpetrators launched a sudden attack on the fishermen, pulling the boat ashore. During the ordeal, the assailants abducted the fishermen and looted approximately Rs 8 lacs worth of fish, along with 7,500 liters of diesel valued at Rs. 5,76,700, stored in the boat. The abducted fishermen were held hostage during this distressing episode.