Bhatkal: A minor dispute over a vehicle horn in Bhatkal escalated into a violent incident, culminating in an alleged stabbing attack that left two youths injured. Police have arrested three persons in connection with the case.
According to sources, the incident began around 6:30 pm on Thursday when an argument broke out between two groups over the honking of a vehicle while heading towards the popular tourist spot, Jali Beach. The situation later intensified and turned violent near Jali Devi Nagar Cross later that night.
As per a complaint filed by a resident of Jali Road, following the initial altercation, the accused—Mohammed Tahir, Kaif Kutti, Yaseen Pasha, Mohammed Maula alias Mushtaq, Mohammed Qasim and others—allegedly arrived at the spot and intercepted the complainant’s vehicle before launching an assault.
The complaint states that the accused abused the victims, issued death threats, and subsequently attacked them with knives. In the assault, Tauseef Khateeb sustained a stab injury to the abdomen, while Mohammed Zufaf Armar was stabbed near the neck. Both were injured.
Mohammed Waseem also sustained injuries to his hand, while another person who attempted to intervene was also assaulted.
Amid the chaos, a wristwatch worth approximately ₹20 lakh and ₹40,000 in cash were reportedly lost, according to the complaint.
The injured were initially shifted to a government hospital and later admitted to a private hospital, where they are currently undergoing treatment.
Following the incident, hundreds of people rushed to the hospital, creating a tense atmosphere. As videos and messages related to the attack went viral on social media, more than a thousand people gathered outside the hospital, demanding the immediate arrest of the accused.
Police rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control.
Later, a large number of people also assembled outside the Bhatkal Town Police Station, reiterating their demand for swift action against the attackers.
Considering the gravity of the situation, DySP Girish and CPI Divakar P.M. attempted to calm the protesters, while additional police forces were deployed to maintain law and order. Police later arrested three accused, identified as Mohammed Tahir, Mohammed Maula, and Mohammed Qasim.
A case has been registered at the Bhatkal Town Police Station, and further investigation is underway.