2008 Ullal terror case: Prime accused Yasin Bhatkal produced via video conference

2008 Ullal terror case: Prime accused Yasin Bhatkal produced via video conference

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, July 24, 2025: In a significant development, Yasin Bhatkal @ Sharukh @ Dr. Araj, the prime accused in a 2008 terrorism case registered at Ullal Police Station, was produced for the first time before the Hon’ble JMFC Court via video conference today. The trial, which had been pending for several years, has now resumed with his appearance.

Case Background:

On October 4, 2008, based on intelligence that members of the banned Indian Mujahideen were engaged in terrorist activities in Mukkacheri and Chembugudde areas under the Ullal Police Station limits in Dakshina Kannada district, DCIB officers carried out raids and apprehended several suspects.

The case (Crime No. 242/2008) was registered at Ullal Police Station, and explosives including IEDs were seized. Seven individuals were arrested, while six others, including Yasin Bhatkal, had absconded.

In a verdict delivered on April 12, 2017:

Syed Mohammed Naushad, Ahmad Bawa Abubakker, and Fakir Ahmed @ Fakir were sentenced to life imprisonment.

Mohammed Ali, Javed Ali, Mohammed Rafiq, and Shabbir Bhatkal were acquitted.

However, the trial against the key accused, Yasin Bhatkal, remained pending due to his absconding status.

Latest Development:

Yasin Bhatkal is currently serving a sentence in Delhi’s Tihar Jail in connection with the Hyderabad bomb blast case. Coordinating with Tihar Jail authorities, Ullal Police successfully produced him via video conference before the JMFC Court on July 24, 2025.

The next hearing has been scheduled for August 20, 2025.