Moodbidri: Panic gripped the private bus stand in Moodbidri on Saturday evening after a youth, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, walked around carrying a machete and reportedly threatened commuters, shopkeepers and others present at the busy location. The incident created fear among the public before police swiftly intervened and took the accused into custody.
The youth has been identified as a resident of Perinje in Beltangady taluk. Police have initiated legal action against him under the Arms Act and other relevant provisions of law.
Fear spreads at busy bus stand
According to police and eyewitness accounts, the youth arrived at the private bus stand while allegedly in an intoxicated state and openly carried a machete as he moved around the premises.
His behaviour reportedly alarmed commuters waiting for buses, vendors and shopkeepers in the area. Witnesses said many people maintained a safe distance after noticing the weapon, while some alerted the police about the unfolding situation.
The incident occurred during the evening when the bus stand was witnessing regular passenger movement, adding to public concern.
Allegedly threatened shop owner and customers
According to reports, the youth later entered a mobile phone shop located within the bus stand premises.
He allegedly threatened the youngsters present inside the shop as well as the shop owner and demanded that they hand over mobile phones. The accused reportedly brandished the machete while issuing threats, creating panic among those inside the establishment.
No injuries were reported during the incident, but those present were left frightened by the accused’s actions.
Police respond swiftly
After leaving the mobile phone shop, the youth reportedly returned to the bus stand and sat on the premises while keeping the machete concealed behind his back.
Soon after receiving information about the incident, personnel from the Moodbidri Police Station rushed to the spot. The police quickly secured the area and took the youth into custody without any untoward incident.
Their prompt response prevented the situation from escalating further and restored normalcy at the bus stand.
Case being registered
Police said a case is being registered against the accused under the Arms Act and other applicable sections of law for allegedly carrying the weapon and threatening members of the public.
Officials stated that the accused will be formally arrested and produced before the jurisdictional magistrate in accordance with legal procedures.
The machete used in the incident has been seized as part of the investigation.
Investigation continues
Police have launched a detailed investigation to determine the sequence of events and whether the accused was involved in any other offences before arriving at the bus stand.
Investigators are also recording statements from eyewitnesses, the shop owner and others who were allegedly threatened during the incident.
Authorities have appealed to the public to immediately report any suspicious activity involving weapons or threats to the nearest police station so that prompt action can be taken to ensure public safety.
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of swift police intervention in preventing potentially dangerous situations in crowded public places. With the accused now in custody, police are continuing their investigation and will proceed with further legal action based on the findings.