Ten Arrested in Connection with Dacoity at PWD Contractor’s House

Mangaluru, Karnataka: Police have arrested ten individuals in connection with a dacoity at the house of Padmanabha Kotyan, a PWD contractor, officials announced on Friday. The incident, which occurred on June 21 in Ulaibettu under Mangalore Rural Police Station limits, involved a gang of masked men who broke into Kotyan’s house, tied him up, and assaulted him. The robbers also threatened his wife and children, ultimately stealing cash and jewellery worth Rs 9 lakh.

City Police Commissioner Anupam Agarwal reported that seven of the arrested individuals were from Kerala, while the remaining three were from Neeramarga and Bantwal. The robbers had also taken Kotyan’s vehicle but abandoned it after traveling a short distance.

The police revealed that the robbery was meticulously planned by four local individuals. Vasanth, a household help and lorry driver employed by Kotyan, collaborated with another person to connect with a group from Kerala. The plan, conceived eight months ago, aimed to rob Kotyan, whom they believed to possess substantial wealth. The gang even brought large gunny bags, expecting a significant haul.

Despite the arrests, police are still searching for four or five more suspects involved in the crime. Multiple police teams were formed to apprehend the accused, highlighting the complexity and coordination required for the investigation.

The case underscores the challenges faced by authorities in tackling organized crime and ensuring the safety of residents.