Udupi: The Udupi police on Monday arrested the fifth accused in connection with the murder of AKMS bus owner Saifuddin, marking another significant development in the high-profile case that has drawn widespread attention across the district. The arrested individual has been identified as Mali Mohammed Siyan (31), a resident of Shanthi Nagar near the Mission Compound in Udupi.
According to police officials, the accused was arrested at around 10.30 am near the MGM College bus stand following sustained surveillance and investigation. With this arrest, the total number of accused taken into custody in the case has risen to five.
Arrest and seizure of vehicle
During the arrest operation, police seized a Glanza car bearing registration number KA20 MF 207, which is suspected to have been used in the commission of the crime. In addition to the vehicle, a mobile phone allegedly used by the accused during the planning or execution of the murder was also recovered.
Police sources said the seizure of the car is expected to provide further clues regarding the movement of the accused before and after the crime. The mobile phone is being examined for call records, messages and location data, which could strengthen the prosecution’s case and help establish links between the accused.
Produced before court
Following the arrest, Mali Mohammed Siyan was produced before a competent court later in the day. The court proceedings are part of the routine legal process, and police are expected to seek further custody if required for additional interrogation and recovery of evidence.
Officials said the investigation is progressing steadily and that the latest arrest has helped fill crucial gaps in the sequence of events leading to the murder.
Background of the case
The murder of Saifuddin, the owner of AKMS bus service, had sent shockwaves through Udupi, given his prominence in the local transport sector. Soon after the incident, Udupi police formed special teams to investigate the case, collect evidence and track down those involved.
Earlier, four other accused were arrested in connection with the murder and are currently lodged in judicial custody. Police had indicated from the beginning that multiple individuals were involved in the crime, and that arrests would be made in phases as evidence emerged.
Focused investigation
Senior police officers have maintained that the investigation has been carried out in a systematic and professional manner, relying on technical evidence, witness statements and surveillance. The arrest of the fifth accused, police said, was the result of sustained follow-up and coordination among different units.
Officials added that further investigation is underway to determine the exact role played by each accused in the crime, including whether there were additional conspirators or facilitators involved.
Assurance to the public
Udupi police have reassured the public that all those responsible for the murder will be brought to justice. They have also appealed to citizens to cooperate with the investigation and come forward with any information that may assist the police.
The case continues to be closely monitored by senior officers, given its seriousness and public interest. Police said more details would be shared at an appropriate stage, without compromising the investigation.
With the arrest of the fifth accused, authorities believe the case is moving closer to completion, though further legal proceedings and trial are expected to take time.