Mangaluru: The body of Mohiddin Nasir was found in a murdered condition in the river waters near the Old Port area of the city on Wednesday, sending shockwaves across the locality. Police have arrested two accused in connection with the case—Deepak Kumar Karai from Odisha and Mohammad Bahuwa from Bihar—based on preliminary evidence collected from the scene.
According to officials, the body was discovered near an area where jetty construction work was underway, raising suspicions of foul play. Initial findings suggest that the crime may have taken place nearby, with the body later moved and disposed of in the river.
Key evidence recovered from the spot
During the investigation, police found several crucial pieces of evidence near the location. Bloodstains were detected on a bike and a scooter parked close to a barricaded construction site made of metal sheets. An iron rod recovered from the vicinity also had visible bloodstains, indicating it may have been used as a weapon in the assault.
Additionally, investigators observed drag marks at the scene, suggesting that the victim’s body had been moved before being dumped into the river. The presence of these marks has strengthened the suspicion that the murder occurred on land and was followed by an attempt to conceal the crime.
Forensic teams were deployed to the site to collect samples and examine the physical evidence, which is expected to play a key role in establishing the sequence of events.
Suspicious movement before discovery
Police sources revealed that, prior to the discovery of the body, two individuals had approached a local resident early on Wednesday morning. They claimed that their mobile phones had been stolen and described a suspect as wearing white shoes, grey pants, and a black shirt.
The duo reportedly enquired whether anyone matching that description had been seen in the area. After the brief interaction, they proceeded towards the jetty construction site—close to where the body was later found.
This unusual behaviour raised suspicion among locals and investigators, leading police to consider the possibility that the same individuals could be involved in the crime. Their statements and movements are now being closely examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
Arrests made, motive unclear
Based on the evidence gathered and preliminary questioning, police arrested the two accused—Deepak Kumar Karai and Mohammad Bahuwa. However, officials have clarified that the motive behind the murder is yet to be established.
“We have arrested two persons based on the evidence collected. At this stage, it cannot be confirmed whether the deceased Mohiddin Nasir had stolen the accused’s mobile phones or whether that was the motive behind the murder. The investigation is in progress, and clarity on the motive will emerge only after its completion,” a police official stated.
Investigators are currently examining multiple angles, including personal enmity, theft, or other disputes that could have led to the incident. The role of the alleged mobile phone theft claim is also being verified.
Case registered, probe continues
A case has been registered at the South police station in Mangaluru. Police teams are continuing their probe, including interrogating the accused, collecting forensic evidence, and speaking to witnesses in the area.
Authorities have assured that all aspects of the case will be thoroughly investigated to ensure justice for the victim. The incident has also prompted concerns about safety in isolated construction zones and riverfront areas in the city.
Conclusion
The murder of Mohiddin Nasir near the Old Port area has highlighted serious concerns regarding safety and criminal activity in under-monitored zones. While the arrest of two accused marks a significant step in the investigation, the motive behind the crime remains unclear. Police efforts are now focused on piecing together the sequence of events and establishing the exact circumstances leading to the killing.