Mangaluru: Ullal police have arrested two men, including a known rowdy-sheeter, for allegedly creating panic and threatening members of the public with a sword at Vinamra Bar in Thokkottu during the early hours of Sunday.
The arrested have been identified as Mohammad Shakir, 31, son of Hussain and a resident of Margathale in Ullal, and Ashfaq, 28, son of Umarabba and a resident of Manchila in Ullal. Shakir, who works as a welder, is reportedly a rowdy-sheeter with several cases registered against him at Ullal police station. Ashfaq works as an auto-rickshaw driver.
Sword-wielding man allegedly threatens people
The incident reportedly occurred between midnight and 12.20 am on Sunday when Shakir, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, arrived at the bar in an auto-rickshaw driven by Ashfaq.
According to the police, Shakir allegedly began brandishing a sword and threatening people in the vicinity. He reportedly entered the bar while carrying the weapon, abused those present and allegedly threatened the staff, asking them to shut down the establishment.
The sudden appearance of a man allegedly wielding a sword caused panic among customers and staff at the bar. Several customers reportedly ran from the premises in an attempt to protect themselves.
The incident reportedly lasted for a short period, but created considerable fear among those present at the establishment.
CCTV footage captures incident
The incident was captured on the bar’s CCTV cameras. The footage subsequently circulated widely on social media, drawing attention to the incident.
The CCTV footage reportedly showed the accused allegedly moving around with the sword and threatening people inside or around the establishment.
Following the incident, information was provided to the Ullal police, who initiated action against the accused.
Police arrest two accused
Ullal police acted on the complaint and arrested Shakir and Ashfaq in connection with the incident.
Police have registered a case against the two under provisions of the Arms Act and other relevant sections of the law. The weapon allegedly used during the incident is also part of the investigation.
The police are examining the circumstances that led to the incident and the role allegedly played by both accused.
According to the authorities, Shakir has several criminal cases registered against him at Ullal police station. His previous criminal record is also being examined as part of the investigation.
Further investigation underway
Police are continuing their investigation to establish the sequence of events and determine whether there were any other persons involved in the incident.
Statements from the bar staff, customers and other witnesses are likely to form part of the investigation. The CCTV footage is also expected to help investigators establish the movements of the accused and the events that unfolded inside the premises.
The incident has raised concerns among local residents and business establishments about public safety, particularly when individuals allegedly carry weapons in public places.
Police have reiterated the seriousness of incidents involving the brandishing of weapons and threats to members of the public. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.