Bantwal chain snatching: Police clear biker in viral photo, say image misleading

Bantwal chain snatching: Police clear biker in viral photo, say image misleading

Mangalore Today News Network

Bantwal, Apr 15, 2026: Vittal police have issued a clarification regarding a photograph of a bike rider circulating on social media in connection with a recent chain snatching incident involving a child.

The incident occurred on April 12, when an unidentified man riding a KTM motorcycle allegedly threatened a seven-year-old child and snatched a gold chain weighing about 7 grams at Kodapadavu, under the jurisdiction of Vittal police station. A case was registered as Crime No. 91/2026 under Section 309(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.

Following the incident, an image of a KTM rider went viral on social media, with claims identifying him as the accused. Acting on these claims, police traced and questioned the individual seen in the photograph.

After a detailed inquiry, police confirmed that the person in the viral image has no connection to the crime.

The clarification was issued after the rider’s family raised concerns to prevent harassment and damage to the reputation of an innocent individual. Police have urged the public not to share or believe unverified information on social media.

Authorities added that efforts are ongoing to trace and apprehend the actual accused.