Mangaluru: A 42-year-old rowdy-sheeter was brutally hacked to death by a group of assailants on the Thokkottu flyover in the early hours of Friday, March 27, in a chilling incident that has sent shockwaves across the coastal city.
The deceased has been identified as Arif Hussain, also known as “Tablet Arif”, a resident of Mullugudde near Uchila. He was a listed rowdy-sheeter at the Mangaluru Bunder police station and was reportedly involved in multiple criminal cases in the past.
Targeted attack in the early hours
According to preliminary police reports, the incident took place at around 3.30 am when Arif was travelling towards Mangaluru on his Bullet motorcycle. He was reportedly heading to the dock as part of his fish business routine.
Investigators believe that the assailants had been tracking his movements. A group of attackers, travelling in a car, allegedly intercepted him on the Thokkottu flyover. The attackers are said to have strategically blocked his motorcycle before launching a sudden and violent assault.
Arif was attacked with lethal weapons, sustaining severe injuries, particularly to his head. The assault was so brutal that he died on the spot. The attackers fled immediately after the incident, leaving behind a gruesome scene that was later discovered by passersby and police.
Previous murder attempt raises suspicion
Significantly, Arif had survived a similar murder attempt in May 2022. In that incident, he was attacked near Bajal by a gang reportedly led by an individual known as Toppi Naufal. The attackers had used knives and attempted to eliminate him while he was on his way to work.
Following that incident, Naufal and his associates were arrested, and a case was registered. Police are now probing whether the previous enmity has any connection to the current murder.
Sources indicate that the pattern of the attack — intercepting the victim during early morning travel and executing a targeted assault — bears similarities to the earlier attempt, strengthening suspicions of a revenge killing or ongoing gang rivalry.
Police launch investigation
Senior police officials, including DCP Mithun, along with the Scene of Crime Officers (SOCO) team, rushed to the spot soon after the incident was reported. A detailed inspection of the crime scene was conducted, and forensic evidence has been collected.
Police have launched a full-scale investigation and are examining CCTV footage from nearby areas to trace the movement of the suspects. Efforts are also underway to identify the vehicle used by the attackers and track their escape route.
Officials have stated that multiple angles are being explored, including personal enmity, gang rivalry, and business-related disputes. However, the exact motive behind the murder is yet to be ascertained.
Background of the victim
Originally hailing from Kudroli, Arif had been residing in Mullugudde near Ajjinadka for the past six to seven years. Despite his criminal background, he was reportedly engaged in the fish business and frequented the dock area regularly.
He is survived by his wife, three sons, and a daughter. His sudden and violent death has left his family in shock.
Rising concerns over law and order
The incident has once again raised concerns about law and order in the region, particularly regarding the activities of rowdy-sheeters and organised gangs. Residents have expressed fear over the brazen nature of the crime, which occurred on a major flyover.
Police have assured the public that strict action will be taken and the culprits will be brought to justice. Increased patrolling and surveillance measures are also expected in the coming days to prevent such incidents.
Conclusion
The murder of Arif Hussain highlights the persistent threat posed by gang rivalries and criminal networks in coastal Karnataka. As the investigation progresses, authorities are under pressure to swiftly identify and apprehend those responsible, ensuring justice and restoring public confidence in safety and security.