Congress leader murder attempt in Ankola: Four arrested, probe intensifies

Karwar : Police have intensified the investigation into the attempted murder of Congress leader Gopalakrishna Naik in Ankola of Uttara Kannada district. Naik, a former general secretary of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee, was attacked by a group of assailants in broad daylight, triggering panic in the coastal town.

Authorities have already arrested four accused in connection with the case and are subjecting them to intense interrogation. Meanwhile, photos and CCTV footage of the suspects moving around Ankola have gone viral on social media. Police confirmed that all four arrested individuals are natives of Goa, but the motive behind the attack is still unclear.

Cctv footage captures shocking attack
The brutal attack was captured on CCTV cameras, showing a group chasing and assaulting Naik in a chilling sequence of events. The incident, which took place in a busy area, has left residents shocked and concerned over rising law and order issues.

According to police sources, the incident occurred on Tuesday morning when Naik was returning from a hair salon. A gang of six to seven men allegedly surrounded him and attempted to kill him. His brother, Raghavendra, intervened at a crucial moment, enabling Naik to escape. He sustained injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Manipal.

Four accused arrested, key suspects absconding
The four accused were detained near the Majali check post in Karwar. Police have identified them as Zakir, Nigel, Saddam and Irfan. CCTV footage from multiple locations has helped trace their movements before and after the crime. Two motorcycles and a car used in the attack have also been seized.

Superintendent of Police Deepan M N stated that the arrested individuals come from varied professional backgrounds, including a bouncer, a welder, a real estate worker and a driver. However, key accused persons are still absconding.

To nab the remaining suspects, police have formed four special teams and launched a search operation in Goa and other locations. Investigators revealed that the accused had been visiting Ankola frequently and had stayed in the town for three days prior to the attack.

Political or business rivalry angle under probe
Police are exploring multiple angles, including political rivalry and business disputes, particularly linked to the real estate sector. Naik, who had recently been gaining popularity among youth in the region, may have been targeted due to his growing influence, sources indicated.

The brazen daylight attack has sent shockwaves across Ankola, raising serious concerns over public safety. Police said the investigation is progressing rapidly and further details regarding the motive and larger conspiracy are expected to emerge in the coming days.