Hubballi/Dharwad (Karnataka), Jul 24 (PTI) Two suspected robbers were shot at when they tried to escape from the police in the wee hours of Thursday, near the Police Training School here, said Hubballi-Dharwad Police Commissioner N Shashikumar.
The incident happened at Vidyanagar police station limits.
According to Shashikumar, a Doordarshan employee was returning home on his bike when armed robbers tried to intercept and rob him on Wednesday night. He escaped and reported to the police.
Police swung into action and nabbed one of the accused, Hussainsab Kanavalli. He is a notorious criminal wanted in more than 35 theft cases across Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra, the official said.
Interrogation of Kanavalli led police to the hideout of the remaining gang members.
When Kanavalli was taken to the hideout, he reportedly attacked the policemen and escaped. A scuffle broke out and two other accussed — Vijay Annigeri and Muzammil Saudagar — tried to flee. Police sub-inspector Mallikarjun warned them and, in self-defence, fired at their legs, Shashikumar said.
Both accused are residents of Rajiv Gandhi Nagar and are said to be part of an organised burglary gang.
Investigations revealed that the gang avoided phone conversations and used Instagram messages to plan their operations, attempting to elude police surveillance.
Shashikumar visited the Dharwad District Hospital and enquired about the condition of Mallikarjun and Constable Ishaq, who sustained injuries during the operation.
He also enquired about Annigeri and Saudagar, who are being treated under tight police security.
Shashikumar said that the trio had attempted to snatch the bike from the Doordarshan employee and their attempt failed.
Based on a tip-off, police teams from three stations in Dharwad set up checkposts and managed to apprehend Kanavalli. However, he escaped while being taken to the hideout to identify the other suspects. A search operation is underway to trace him, the police officer said. PTI GMS KH
This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.