Mangaluru: In a major development in a long-pending attempt to murder case, authorities have issued a Red Corner Notice (RCN) against Sameer, a habitual offender accused of attacking a police officer and later fleeing abroad. The move is aimed at securing his detention and eventual extradition to India.
RCN issued to track accused abroad
Police officials confirmed that the Red Corner Notice has been issued against Sameer, who is wanted in connection with an attempt to murder case registered under Section 307 of the Indian Penal Code. He is accused of being involved in a brutal assault on assistant sub-inspector (ASI) Aithappa.
The issuance of the RCN enables international law enforcement agencies to locate and provisionally detain the accused in a foreign country, pending extradition or further legal proceedings.
History of multiple criminal cases
Sameer is reportedly involved in at least 14 criminal cases, reflecting a long history of alleged criminal activity. These include one gang rape case and seven cases registered under Section 307 (attempt to murder).
While he has been acquitted in a few cases, a majority of the charges against him remain under trial in various courts. Police sources have indicated that his criminal background was a significant factor in escalating efforts to track him internationally.
Earlier action against co-accused
Authorities also noted that similar action had previously been initiated against another accused, Safwan, in connection with related cases. However, Safwan was apprehended by the police before he could successfully flee the country and evade prosecution.
This earlier success has strengthened confidence among investigators that Sameer too can be traced and brought back to face the law.
Details of the 2017 attack
The case dates back to April 5, 2017, when ASI Aithappa, attached to the Urwa police station, was violently attacked while on duty. The incident occurred near Ladyhill Circle at approximately 3.30 am.
According to police records, Aithappa was assaulted by two unidentified assailants who arrived on a motorcycle. He sustained severe head injuries after being struck with a rod, making it a serious case of attempted murder.
The attack had sparked widespread concern at the time, as it involved a direct assault on a serving police officer performing his duties.
Appeal for public cooperation
Authorities have appealed to the public to assist in locating the accused by sharing any credible information about his whereabouts abroad. Officials emphasised that cooperation from citizens and international agencies is crucial in ensuring that fugitives do not escape justice.
Police further stated that once traced, Sameer could be detained in the foreign country and may face legal action both there and in India, depending on applicable laws and bilateral agreements.
Conclusion
The issuance of a Red Corner Notice against Sameer marks a significant step in the pursuit of justice in the 2017 attack on ASI Aithappa. With international mechanisms now in motion, authorities are hopeful of securing his return to India.
The case underlines the growing use of global law enforcement cooperation to track absconding accused and reinforces the message that fleeing abroad does not guarantee immunity from prosecution.