Bantwal: The Vittal police have arrested a notorious theft accused who had been absconding for several years and repeatedly evading court appearances in connection with multiple criminal cases. The accused, identified as Mohammed Salam, popularly known as K M Salam or ‘Dollar Salam’, was apprehended near the Puttur railway station following a targeted operation based on reliable information.
Mohammed Salam, a resident of Chikkamudnoor in Puttur, was wanted in connection with two theft cases registered at the Vittal police station. The cases, registered as Crime No. 24/2020 and Crime No. 34/2022, were booked under Sections 457 and 380 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) relating to housebreaking and theft.
According to police sources, despite the ongoing legal proceedings in both cases, Salam had repeatedly failed to appear before the court and had remained in hiding to avoid arrest. His continued absence led authorities to intensify efforts to trace his whereabouts.
Arrest made near Puttur railway station
Acting on credible intelligence regarding the accused’s movements, Vittal police launched a search operation and successfully tracked him down near the Puttur railway station on June 16.
Police personnel immediately took him into custody and completed the necessary legal formalities. Following the arrest, Salam was produced before the court, which remanded him to judicial custody.
The arrest is considered a significant breakthrough for the Vittal police, who had been searching for the accused for an extended period due to his repeated failure to cooperate with court proceedings.
Additional criminal case pending
Police sources revealed that Mohammed Salam is also facing charges in another criminal case registered at the Puttur Town police station. The case, registered as Crime No. 45/2023, includes offences under Sections 353, 332 and 504 of the IPC.
The charges relate to obstructing a public servant in the discharge of duty, causing hurt to deter a public servant from performing official duties and intentional insult intended to provoke a breach of peace.
Authorities stated that an arrest warrant had already been issued against Salam in this case as well because of his continuous failure to attend court hearings.
Police continue action against absconding accused
The successful arrest highlights the ongoing efforts of the district police to trace and apprehend individuals who evade legal proceedings and remain absconding despite pending criminal cases.
Police officials said that strict action will continue against accused persons who fail to comply with court directives and attempt to avoid the judicial process. Further investigation into the pending cases involving Salam is expected to continue as per legal procedures.