Mangaluru: In a shocking incident, a gang of seven unidentified miscreants allegedly intercepted the car of a Kerala-based businessman and fled with the vehicle and 180 grams of gold ornaments at Baikampady during the early hours of Monday.
The victim has been identified as Vikas, who owns a jewellery shop in Sangli, Maharashtra. He was travelling with his wife and son when the incident occurred.
Gang intercepts family’s car on NH 66
According to police sources, the incident took place at around 2.15 am when Vikas and his family were travelling in their Swift car from Sangli to Payyanur in Kerala.
As they reached near Dwara Hotel at the Baikampady junction on National Highway 66, an Innova carrying seven unidentified persons allegedly blocked their vehicle.
The accused reportedly dragged Vikas out of the car and drove away in the family’s Swift car with his wife and son still inside, temporarily abducting them.
The sudden and daring nature of the crime caused panic among the victims, who were travelling during the early morning hours.
Gold ornaments robbed, mother and son abandoned
Police said the gang drove towards the Panambur beach road, where they allegedly robbed a bag containing 180 grams of gold ornaments belonging to Vikas’s wife.
Investigators noted that although the robbers took the bag containing the gold ornaments, they did not remove the gold chain that the woman was wearing at the time of the incident.
After taking the valuables, the accused allegedly abandoned the woman and her son on the roadside before escaping in the victims’ Swift car.
The total value of the stolen gold is yet to be officially assessed.
Dacoity case registered
A case of dacoity has been registered at the Surathkal Police Station based on the complaint.
Police sources said they have obtained crucial clues regarding the incident and have launched an intensive search to trace the accused.
Dedicated teams have been formed to track down the gang and recover the stolen vehicle and valuables. Investigators are also examining CCTV footage from the surrounding areas and gathering technical evidence to identify the suspects.
Investigation under way
The brazen robbery has raised concerns over the safety of motorists travelling on the highway during late-night hours.
Police officials have assured that all efforts are being made to apprehend the accused at the earliest. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
Authorities have appealed to anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist the investigation.