Mangaluru: Panambur police have arrested a notorious rowdy-sheeter who had been absconding in connection with a robbery reported near Tannirbhavi beach earlier this month.
The arrested individual has been identified as Chandu Haris (33), a resident of Kasba Bengre. Police said he is a habitual offender with more than 30 cases registered against him and was already listed as a rowdy-sheeter at the Panambur police station. He also had three pending warrants issued by a court in earlier cases.
Robbery during birthday outing
According to police, the incident occurred in the early hours of April 13. The complainant, Ajay K (29), a resident of Somwarpet in Madikeri, had travelled to Mangaluru along with his friends Ramesh and Rafiq to celebrate his birthday at Tannirbhavi beach.
At around 2.30 am, the group reportedly lost their way while searching for the beach and ended up heading towards Kasba Bengre. They stopped their car to ask for directions from two youths walking along the roadside.
The youths offered to guide them and got into the back seat of the vehicle. After travelling a short distance, they allegedly asked Ajay to stop the car. They then threatened the occupants with a screwdriver, warning them of dire consequences, and smashed the front windshield of the vehicle.
Valuables looted at knifepoint
The accused reportedly snatched valuables worth Rs 24,500 from the victims. The stolen items included a Titan watch, a Fastrack watch, a camera gimbal, a power bank, a rolled-gold bracelet, and Rs 2,000 in cash.
Police said Chandu Haris later arrived at the spot on a motorcycle, collected the looted items from the accomplices, and facilitated their escape. Including the damage caused to the vehicle, the total loss in the incident was estimated at Rs 32,500.
Swift police action
Following the complaint, Panambur Police Inspector Saleem Abbas, under the guidance of senior officials, launched a swift investigation into the case. The operation was carried out with the assistance of Police Sub-Inspectors Srikala K T and Jnanashekara.
On the same day as the incident, April 13, police managed to apprehend two of the accused—Mohammed Sinan (24) and Zaheer Nisar (22), both residents of Kasba Bengre. During their arrest, officers recovered a camera gimbal, a Titan watch, and the screwdriver used in the crime.
Key accused arrested
However, Chandu Haris had managed to evade arrest and remained absconding for several days. Police intensified their search operations and successfully tracked him down on April 22.
Following his arrest, officials recovered the remaining stolen items, including a smartwatch and a power bank. The TVS Apache motorcycle used in the crime was also seized.
Produced before court
After completing the necessary investigation procedures, the accused was produced before the court. Police officials stated that further investigation is ongoing to determine if the accused were involved in other similar crimes in the region.
Conclusion
The arrest of the main accused has brought a significant breakthrough in the Tannirbhavi beach robbery case. With all suspects now in custody and stolen items largely recovered, the case highlights the prompt response of the Panambur police. Authorities have reiterated the need for caution among visitors, especially during late-night travel in unfamiliar areas.