In a disturbing incident, four unidentified bike-borne individuals reportedly pelted stones at the Badriya Juma Masjid in Katipalla 3rd Block late Sunday night. The incident occurred around 11 PM, when the four assailants arrived on their bikes and began hurling stones at the mosque, located in the suburban region of Mangaluru.
The Incident
Eyewitnesses and local residents reported seeing the masked assailants arrive near the mosque before swiftly beginning their assault. The reason behind the attack remains unclear, but it has caused concern among residents in the locality.
According to sources, the attack has sparked unease among the local Muslim community, which is largely based around the mosque in Katipalla. Many are worried about the growing number of incidents targeting places of worship in the region. Residents are calling for swift action by the authorities to ensure the security of the mosque and maintain communal harmony in the area.
Police Investigation Underway
Following the incident, the **Surathkal police** immediately reached the scene and began an investigation. Officers have confiscated CCTV footage from the mosque premises, along with recordings from nearby locations and establishments, to identify the culprits. The police are working on retrieving detailed evidence to move forward with the investigation.
Speaking to the media, a police officer said, “We have gathered CCTV footage from the mosque and surrounding areas, and we are reviewing it to identify the attackers. The investigation is ongoing, and we will ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice as soon as possible.”
The police are also reportedly in contact with community leaders in the area to prevent any escalation of tensions following the incident. While there have been no immediate reports of communal unrest, the authorities are on high alert to avoid any flare-ups.
Reactions from the Community
Members of the local community have expressed their dismay and shock over the attack. Several residents have called for stronger measures to protect places of worship in the region, pointing out that similar incidents have occurred in the past. “This is not just an attack on the mosque, but on our entire community. We hope the authorities will take strong action against those responsible,” said a local resident.
In the wake of the stone-pelting incident, leaders from various communities in Katipalla have urged peace and patience. They have asked residents to maintain calm while the police carry out their investigation. The leaders have also stressed the importance of unity and cooperation to prevent such incidents from causing divisions in the community.
Local officials have condemned the attack and pledged their full support in ensuring justice for the mosque and its worshippers. Religious leaders are also expected to meet with police officials to discuss security measures for the mosque and surrounding areas.
Security Measures and Appeals for Calm
In response to the attack, authorities have increased police presence in and around the Katipalla area to prevent further incidents. Additional security personnel have been deployed at key locations, particularly around religious sites, to maintain peace and order. Community members have been asked to report any suspicious activities or individuals to the police to assist in their investigation.
Local religious leaders have also urged the public to remain calm and refrain from taking matters into their own hands. “We trust that the authorities will investigate this matter thoroughly. We ask our community members to maintain peace and not allow this unfortunate incident to provoke unnecessary tensions,” said a senior leader from the mosque.
Preventing Future Incidents
The incident has reignited discussions on the need for greater surveillance and security at places of worship in the region. Many have called for enhanced safety measures, such as the installation of additional CCTV cameras, improved lighting, and the deployment of more security personnel during night hours, particularly in areas that have seen repeated communal tensions in the past.
Local authorities have also promised to review existing security protocols and take steps to ensure that such incidents do not occur in the future. “We will work closely with the police and other law enforcement agencies to prevent future attacks and ensure the safety of all religious sites in the region,” said a local official.
While the investigation is still in its early stages, there is hope that the culprits will be apprehended soon and that such incidents will not deter the peaceful coexistence of different communities in the Katipalla area.