Police Arrest Three in Mangaluru Highway Dacoity Case

Mangaluru City Police successfully apprehended three suspects linked to an armed highway robbery that occurred near Baikampady on National Highway-66. The incident, which took place in the early hours of June 29, 2026, involved a family from Maharashtra who were intercepted by masked men. The perpetrators used machetes to threaten the victims, eventually abducting members of the family before fleeing with a car, gold ornaments valued at ₹20 lakh, and mobile devices, totaling over ₹23 lakh in losses.

Police launched an intensive investigation, tracking the suspects across multiple districts including Kannur, Kodagu, and Madikeri. The arrested individuals include Nimil RK, Irshad, and Mustafa, who were allegedly involved in the commission of the crime, logistical support, and providing shelter. Authorities managed to recover the stolen Maruti Swift Dzire car on June 30, which had been abandoned in Bantwal taluk with its registration plates removed.

Investigations indicate that a larger criminal network of 16 persons orchestrated the dacoity. With three suspects now in custody, police are actively pursuing the remaining 13 absconding participants. Officials have released photographs of the fugitives and offered a cash reward for information leading to their arrest. Security on the national highway is being bolstered to prevent further such incidents, while the recovered property is being processed for return to the victim family.