Sword scare in Mangaluru: Teen duo booked under new criminal law

Two young men have been charged in Mangaluru after allegedly flashing swords in public during daylight hours, sparking panic among residents in Panjimogaru and Shantinagar.

Kavoor Police have filed two separate FIRs—Crime Nos. 71/2025 and 72/2025—under several sections of the recently introduced Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. The offences include abetment (Sec 109), criminal intimidation (Sec 62), use of force or assault (Sec 352), and unlawful display of weapons (Sec 351(2) read with Sections 3 & 5).

The accused have been identified as Vishnu (18) from Bejai, Kadri, and Venugopal (19) from Kapikad, Akashabhavan. Both are already lodged in judicial custody in connection with a separate case under Ullal Police’s jurisdiction.

Authorities have announced they will obtain body warrants to take the duo into custody for further interrogation related to the sword-wielding incidents.

The situation gained urgency after video clips showing the youths brandishing the weapons went viral on social media, leading to public outrage and swift police intervention.

The case is being treated with seriousness under the revised criminal code to send a clear message against public intimidation and illegal arms display.

#WeaponFreeStreets #MangaluruPoliceAction #SafeNeighborhoods #BNS2023InAction