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Eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the murder of Hindu activist Suhas Shetty, as investigations into the high-profile case continue.
8 Arrested in Connection with the Murder of Hindu Activist Suhas Shetty in Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Karnataka — The coastal city of Mangaluru was thrust into turmoil following the brutal murder of Suhas Shetty, a former Bajrang Dal activist and one of the main accused in the 2022 killing of Mohammed Fazil. On May 1, 2025,
Shetty was attacked by a group of assailants wielding swords and sharp weapons near Kinnipadavu, on the outskirts of the city. He later succumbed to his injuries at AJ Hospital.
According to police reports, Shetty was traveling with five others in a vehicle when they were ambushed. The assailants reportedly intercepted the vehicle and launched a targeted attack on Shetty, leaving him with multiple fatal wounds. While the other occupants escaped with minor injuries, Shetty was rushed to the hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival.
In a swift response to the incident, Karnataka police launched an extensive investigation and formed multiple special teams to track down the culprits. Within 48 hours, eight individuals were arrested in connection with the murder.
Law enforcement authorities have indicated that the attack appears to be a revenge killing, given Shetty’s alleged involvement in the 2022 murder of Fazil, a young Muslim man whose death had sparked outrage in the community.
The murder has reignited communal tensions in the region. Following the attack, prohibitory orders were imposed in Mangaluru under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, restricting large gatherings and banning the spread of provocative content. These orders are in effect until May 6. Security has been tightened, and police patrols have been intensified to prevent any escalation of violence.
In the wake of the murder, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and several affiliated Hindu organizations called for a bandh (shutdown) in protest. Parts of Mangaluru, particularly in areas like Surathkal and Bajpe, saw businesses shuttered and roads blocked. Some incidents of stone-pelting on public transport vehicles were also reported. Police intervened promptly to restore order and warned against any actions that could provoke further unrest.
The killing of Suhas Shetty has not only raised concerns about law and order in the region but also brought back focus on the ongoing cycle of communal retribution that has troubled coastal Karnataka in recent years. Both Hindu and Muslim community leaders have been urged to maintain peace and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure justice is served without further communal polarization.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah condemned the murder and appealed for calm, stating that violence of any form will not be tolerated. “The government will take strict action against those responsible, and efforts are underway to ensure justice is delivered swiftly,” he said.
As the investigation continues, the police are examining the backgrounds of the arrested individuals and checking for any wider conspiracy. The public has been requested to remain vigilant, avoid spreading rumors on social media, and report suspicious activity to authorities.
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