MANGALURU: A suspect in the Mangaluru cooperative bank robbery was injured in police firing on Tuesday after he allegedly attacked officers and attempted to escape custody. Three police personnel sustained injuries during the incident.
City Police Commissioner Anupam Agrawal stated that based on information provided by the accused, Kannan Mani, a spot inspection was conducted near Alankaru Gudde on KC Road around 4:20 PM. The inspection team included Ullal police station inspector Balakrishna H N and other investigators.
During the inspection, Mani reportedly attacked escort personnel Anjanappa and Nithin with a broken beer bottle found at the scene and attempted to stab inspector Balakrishna. Despite a warning shot fired into the air by the inspector, Mani tried to flee. In response, inspector KM Rafiq fired at Mani’s leg, subduing him.
Both the injured police personnel and the suspect were taken to a hospital in Deralakatte for treatment. A case has been registered regarding the incident.
Details of the Heist
On Monday, Mangaluru police arrested three individuals linked to the armed robbery at the Talapady branch of Kotekar Vyavasaya Seva Sahakari Sangha Cooperative Bank. The robbers reportedly stole approximately ₹15 crore worth of gold ornaments and ₹11.7 lakh in cash. The bank confirmed having insurance coverage of up to ₹19 crore.
During the investigation, police recovered:
- The car used in the robbery
- Two pistols with three live rounds
- Machetes
- A portion of the stolen cash and gold, recovered from two gunny bags
Recognition for Police Efforts
District minister-in-charge Dinesh Gundu Rao and Assembly Speaker U T Khader praised the Mangaluru police for their swift action in apprehending the suspects and recovering the stolen valuables.
