Udupi: Two held for attempted murder of auto-rickshaw driver

Udupi: Two held for attempted murder of auto-rickshaw driver

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, May 2, 2025: An attempted murder was reported in Udupi on the night of May 1, targeting a 50-year-old auto-rickshaw driver, Abubakkar, a resident of Badagabettu.

As per the police complaint, Abubakkar received a call from an acquaintance named Dinesh, requesting a ride from Madaga to Athradi. Abubakkar complied and was on his way back from Athradi when, at around 11:15 p.m. near the Athradi Gas Petrol Bunk, two men on a motorcycle began trailing his vehicle.

 

 

The duo reportedly hurled verbal abuse at Abubakkar and attempted to halt his rickshaw. When he didn’t comply, one of the assailants, riding pillion, brandished a sword-like weapon and allegedly issued a death threat in the local dialect.

Sensing danger, Abubakkar stopped his auto near Shedigudde, close to the residence of a bus owner, and tried to escape on foot. One attacker is said to have swung the weapon at him, but Abubakkar narrowly avoided injury. Meanwhile, the other suspect reportedly shattered the front glass of the rickshaw with a bottle.

The assailants appeared intent on killing him, but Abubakkar managed to flee by jumping over a nearby compound wall.

Superintendent of Police Dr. Arun K confirmed that during interrogation, the accused revealed a connection between this attack and a recent murder case in Mangaluru.

A case has been registered at the Hiriyadka police station. The arrested individuals have been identified as Sandesh (31) from Bommara Bettu and Sushanth (32) from Bapuji Dharkas, both residents of Hiriyadka. They have been presented before the court.

The investigation is currently underway.