Mangaluru: In a major breakthrough, Mangaluru City Police have apprehended seven key accused in connection with the murder of rowdy-sheeter Arif at the Thokkottu flyover on March 27. The case, which involved a meticulously planned attack and a wider support network, has revealed the extent of coordination among the accused, including assistance from individuals operating from abroad.
Key accused apprehended
According to Sudheer Kumar Reddy, Commissioner of Police, those secured in connection with the case are Rifat, Juttu Ashfaq, Khaleel, Shakir, Irfan, Rizwan and Irshad.
Police said that six of the accused — Rifat, Juttu Ashfaq, Khaleel, Shakir, Irfan and Rizwan — were directly involved in executing the murder, while Irshad played a crucial supporting role.
Planned attack carried out on flyover
Explaining the sequence of events, the Commissioner stated that on the day of the crime, the six primary accused trailed Arif’s motorcycle. Using a multi-utility vehicle (MUV), they rammed his bike from behind, causing him to lose control.
Following the collision, the group launched a fatal assault on Arif before fleeing the scene. The attack was swift and coordinated, indicating prior planning and surveillance.
Role of facilitators and support network
Investigations have uncovered a sophisticated support system that enabled the accused to plan and execute the crime, as well as evade law enforcement in the immediate aftermath.
Irshad has been identified as a key facilitator who provided accommodation to the attackers before the murder and assisted them in escaping after the incident.
Another accused, Suhail, allegedly arranged the rental vehicle used in the crime and handed it over to Rifat before fleeing to Saudi Arabia soon after.
Arshad, police said, played a pivotal role in logistics. He is accused of procuring weapons, maintaining constant communication with the attackers, and monitoring police movements. He also reportedly provided real-time updates, arranged transportation, and financed the suspects while they were absconding.
Use of technology to evade police
The investigation has also revealed the use of advanced methods to evade detection. Ashwir, a co-accused from a previous case, is believed to have provided technical assistance to help the suspects avoid surveillance.
He allegedly supplied foreign (Dubai-based) OTPs, enabling the accused to operate international WhatsApp accounts while remaining in India. When police identified one number, he reportedly provided new credentials, ensuring uninterrupted and undetected communication among the group.
Funding from abroad
Police further suspect that Mustafa and Ashwir, operating from abroad, provided financial backing for the operation. This included funds for travel, accommodation, and other logistical needs while the accused were in hiding.
The involvement of overseas operatives has added a new dimension to the investigation, with authorities now exploring possible international links and financial trails.
Motive linked to old rivalry
Preliminary investigations suggest that the murder was driven by longstanding rivalry. Police believe that tensions escalated after Arif allegedly celebrated the death of another rowdy-sheeter, Naufal.
This act is said to have provoked the accused, leading to the planned attack.
Probe continues into larger conspiracy
While seven key accused have been apprehended, police suspect a larger conspiracy behind the murder. Efforts are ongoing to identify and track additional individuals who may have been involved in planning, funding, or facilitating the crime.
Authorities are also working to trace those who have fled abroad and are coordinating with relevant agencies to bring them to justice.
Conclusion
The arrest of seven accused marks significant progress in unraveling the Arif murder case, but investigators believe the case extends beyond those currently in custody. With international links, technological evasion tactics, and organised planning coming to light, the case highlights the evolving nature of criminal networks.
Police have assured that all individuals involved, directly or indirectly, will be identified and prosecuted as the investigation continues.