Mangaluru: City police have arrested a 23-year-old man for allegedly spreading provocative and misleading messages on social media that accused the police of colluding with criminals in connection with a murder case. The accused, identified as Abhishek M, son of Muralidhar and a resident of Katipalya in Mangaluru, was taken into custody following an investigation by the CEN crime police station.
According to police officials, Abhishek was operating an Instagram account under the name mr_a_titude, through which he allegedly posted content aimed at discrediting the police department and inciting public mistrust. The posts reportedly made unsubstantiated allegations against the police, claiming that officers were favouring accused persons involved in a murder case at Hotel Nisarga.
Case registered under multiple IPC sections
The case was registered at the Bajpe police station on May 8, 2025, based on a complaint regarding the inflammatory nature of the posts. Police have invoked Sections 353(1)(c), 353(2), 56, 57, and 189 of the Indian Penal Code. These sections pertain to acts intended to provoke public mischief, spreading false information, and obstructing public servants from performing their lawful duties.
The controversial posts allegedly stated that police personnel were “serving meals to the accused at Hotel Nisarga” and accused them of colluding with criminals. The posts further claimed that such actions were eroding the public’s trust in law enforcement agencies, a statement police have termed as baseless and misleading.
Senior officers said the content had the potential to disturb public order and create unnecessary tension by portraying the police in a false light during an ongoing investigation.
Background of the Hotel Nisarga murder case
The social media posts were linked to a murder case that had taken place at Hotel Nisarga, which had drawn considerable public attention. Police sources clarified that the investigation into the murder was being conducted strictly in accordance with the law and that no special treatment was being extended to any of the accused.
Officials stated that spreading unverified claims during sensitive investigations could hamper police work and mislead the public. “Such posts can create confusion and provoke unrest, especially when they concern serious criminal cases,” a senior officer said.
Accused has multiple criminal cases
Police revealed that Abhishek M has a significant criminal background, with multiple cases registered against him at different police stations in coastal Karnataka. His past cases include an attempted murder case registered at Surathkal police station in 2021 (Case No. 11/2021), an assault case in the same year (Surathkal PS Case No. 137/2021), and a murder case registered in 2022 (Surathkal PS Case No. 62/2022).
In addition, a robbery case was registered against him at Kapu police station in 2024 (Kapu PS Case No. 62/2024). Police officials said his criminal antecedents were taken into account during the investigation into the present case.
Arrest traced through technical evidence
Officers of the CEN crime police station tracked the accused using technical evidence, including digital footprints linked to the Instagram account. After confirming his involvement in uploading the alleged posts, the police arrested Abhishek and produced him before a competent court.
Officials said the investigation is still ongoing and further details regarding the motive behind the posts and whether others were involved will be examined. The police have also not ruled out the possibility of additional charges if further evidence emerges.
Police issue warning against misinformation
Reacting to the arrest, police officials reiterated their commitment to maintaining public safety and order. In an official statement, the department said, “Our department remains fully committed to ensuring public safety. We will take strict action against anyone attempting to incite unrest or spread misleading information.”
The police urged citizens to verify information before sharing it on social media and warned that misuse of digital platforms to spread rumours or provoke public sentiment would invite legal action.
Conclusion
The arrest highlights the increasing scrutiny of social media content that has the potential to disrupt public order or undermine trust in institutions. Police officials emphasised that while freedom of expression is respected, it must be exercised responsibly and within the bounds of the law. The case serves as a reminder that provocative and unverified allegations, particularly during active criminal investigations, can have serious legal consequences.