Bhatkal – In a major breakthrough, police foiled a robbery attempt in the early hours of Wednesday in Bilalkhand near Sagar Road, arresting three suspects while two others managed to escape.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Jaleel Hussain (39), a resident of Mangaluru; Nasir Hakeem from Bhatkal; and a minor. The absconding suspects, Zeeshan and Nabeel, are both residents of Bhatkal. Police have launched a manhunt and constituted a special team to trace the duo.
According to police sources, the group had arrived in a grey Toyota Innova car around 3 a.m. on May 28 and was allegedly planning a robbery. Officers recovered items typically used in such crimes, including knives, chili powder, monkey caps, belts, tarpaulin sheets, and other tools.
Police said Jaleel Hussain, a driver by profession, is a known member of the Garuda Gang with multiple criminal cases registered against him. Nasir Hakeem also has a criminal record and is considered an inter-district offender.
The plot came to light when PSI Rannagowda Patil of Bhatkal Rural Police Station noticed the vehicle parked suspiciously near a dimly lit crossroads. As he approached for questioning, the suspects attempted to flee by reversing the car, but lost control and ended up in a roadside ditch. Three were apprehended on the spot, while two others escaped under the cover of darkness.
During the operation, police seized two mobile phones, ₹1,500 in cash, the Toyota Innova, and other incriminating materials. A case has been registered at Bhatkal Rural Police Station, and further investigation is underway.