Dakshina Kannada: Police have taken one person into custody in connection with the violent assault on YouTubers that occurred in Dharmasthala on the evening of August 6. The arrested individual has been identified as Somnath Sapalya, a 48-year-old jeep driver from Kanyadi village.
The incident took place at Pangala Cross, where a group of four YouTubers were allegedly attacked by a mob while recording content. Their cameras were vandalized, and they reportedly sustained injuries during the confrontation.
Following the assault, the Dharmasthala Police Station registered a case under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)—including 189(2), 191(2), 115(2), 324(5), 352, 307, and 190—against an estimated 15 to 50 unidentified individuals involved in the incident.
A special team led by Sub-Inspector Samarth R Ganigera carried out the arrest of Somnath Sapalya, who is suspected to have played a key role in the attack. Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other accused individuals.
The arrest marks the first breakthrough in the case, which has drawn public attention due to its violent nature and the growing tension in the region over sensitive local issues.
Police sources have confirmed that additional arrests may follow as they continue to review evidence and eyewitness statements.