Mangaluru: Pandeshwar police ASI attempts suicide by self-immolation; hospitalised in critical condition

Mangaluru: Pandeshwar police ASI attempts suicide by self-immolation; hospitalised in critical condition

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, December 29, 2025: An Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) attached to the Pandeshwar police station allegedly attempted suicide by pouring petrol on himself and setting himself on fire at his residence in Kadri Vyasanagar in the city.

The officer has been identified as Harishchandra Berike, an ASI of the Pandeshwar police station. A native of Mulleria in Kasaragod district, Kerala, Harishchandra had served in various police stations across Mangaluru and Udupi districts for the past 27 years and was promoted as ASI about a year ago. He had earlier served with the Coastal Security Police and was recently transferred to the Pandeshwar police station.

He had constructed a new house and settled in Kadri Vyasanagar three years ago. His wife and children had gone to their native place yesterday due to holidays.

On Wednesday morning, Harishchandra appeared normal, and locals noticed him plucking flowers outside his house to offer prayers. However, around 10.30 am, neighbours heard screams and saw him engulfed in flames in front of his house. Residents immediately poured water and managed to douse the fire, but by then his clothes and body had suffered severe burns.

Kadri police and an ambulance rushed to the spot after receiving information, and he was admitted to AJ Hospital, where his condition is stated to be critical.

A petrol can, partially burnt and containing petrol, was found outside the house along with a scorched plastic water bottle. Petrol had also splashed onto a tin sheet of the neighbouring house, which caught fire, burning the sheet, a fibre pipe, and a floor mat.

Kadri police are conducting an investigation at the scene.