In Shivamogga’s Gandhi Bazaar, a fruit vendor’s shop was allegedly set on fire by a miscreant after he refused to pay “hafta” (protection money). Bhuvaneshwar, a young vendor, had denied payment to the accused, Riaz alias Motu, just a day before the incident on October 30, police reported.
Early in the morning, local resident Tabrez informed Bhuvaneshwar that his shop was ablaze. Despite rushing to the scene, Bhuvaneshwar was unable to salvage his stall, suffering losses estimated at Rs 1 lakh. The distraught vendor subsequently filed a complaint at the Kote police station.
In swift action, authorities apprehended the accused within 24 hours and presented him in court.
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