David D’Souza Murder Case: Accused Shot in Leg After Alleged Attack on Police
Udupi: An accused in the murder of businessman David D’Souza was shot in the leg by police in self-defence after he allegedly attacked police personnel, snatched an SI’s pistol and opened fire at them while being taken into custody. The incident occurred within the limits of Hebri Police Station.
The accused, identified as Anuj Patil (35), a Mumbai-based gangster, sustained a gunshot injury and was admitted to the Ajjarkad Government Hospital in Udupi for treatment.
What Happened?
At around 3:45 p.m. on August 7, David D’Souza, owner of Prince Enterprises, was shot dead by a pillion rider who was part of a group of assailants who arrived on a motorcycle. The incident occurred at the St Xavier Church Complex in Mudrangadi, Kaup taluk. A case was registered at Shirva Police Station and an investigation was launched.
As part of the investigation, a police team comprising Kundapura Police Station PSI Nanja Nayak, Kollur Police Station PSI Vinay and other personnel conducted an operation within the limits of Hebri Police Station. Between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m., the team arrested Mumbai-based gangster Anuj Patil, who is allegedly suspected of having sent three shooters in connection with the murder of David D’Souza.
While being taken into custody, Patil allegedly attacked the police personnel. He then reportedly snatched the service weapon of Kollur PSI Vinay and opened fire at the police, according to officials.
In response, Kundapura PSI Nanja Nayak shot Patil in the leg in self-defence. The injured accused was shifted to Ajjarkad Government Hospital in Udupi, where he is undergoing treatment.
11 Cases Registered Against Accused, Who Had Been Absconding Since 2017
According to the police, Patil was involved in criminal activities in Mumbai and had been absconding since 2017. A case had also been registered against him in Maharashtra under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).
Police said a total of 11 cases have been registered against Patil, including 10 cases under the Arms Act.
Of these, four cases were registered in Maharashtra, five in Gujarat, one in Daman and Diu, and one in Karnataka.
Police are continuing their investigation into the David D’Souza murder case, including efforts to apprehend other accused persons and uncover the network allegedly operating behind the crime.