In the aftermath of a violent clash between two groups on Mantur Road in Hubballi on Wednesday, the police have arrested 20 individuals, including five rowdy-sheeters and three members of the Modus Operandi Bureau (MOBs).
Speaking to the press on Thursday, Police Commissioner N. Shashi Kumar confirmed that multiple complaints had been filed at the Town Police Station following the altercation, which led to three separate cases being registered. He clarified that the incident was not a gang war or pre-planned attack, but a group conflict triggered by personal rivalry.
Out of those arrested, 18 are around 25 years old, while two are in their 40s. Some of the key accused include Ganesh Jadhav (25), Subhas alias Shubham Bijawad (24), Pavan Indaragi (27), and Vinayak Dondi (22).
CCTV footage reviewed by investigators revealed one suspect brandishing deadly weapons, who is currently on the run. A search is ongoing to trace and apprehend him.
To ensure law and order, the police have taken preventive action by initiating proceedings under the Goonda Act to deport the identified rowdy-sheeters. A rowdy-sheeter parade has also been conducted as part of confidence-building and deterrence measures.
Commissioner Shashi Kumar also announced that additional police personnel will be deployed in sensitive and high-risk zones across the twin cities. DCP (Law & Order) Mahaning Nandagavi and other senior officers were present during the briefing.