HUBBALLI, 16 NOV 

Police in Hubballi shot two key murder accused in the legs on Sunday morning after they allegedly attacked officers and attempted to escape during a spot inspection. The incident is connected to the murder of 27-year-old Malik Jaan, who was reportedly stabbed to death by a group of eight to ten men on Mantur Road under Bendigeri police station limits three days earlier.

The main suspects, Balaraj alias Balu, and Mohammed Hafeez, had already been arrested along with several others. On Sunday, police took the pair to Mantur Road for a spot inspection after they informed investigators that their gang frequently met at a shed in the area.

According to officials, the suspects suddenly began pelting stones at the police in an effort to flee. Three officers sustained injuries in the attack and were taken to KIMS Hospital.

Police Commissioner N Shashikumar visited the injured officers and later briefed the media. 

He said Balaraj had attempted to mislead police by claiming he worked in sheep transport, while his primary activities allegedly involved robbery, intimidation and acting as a henchman. Hafeez also faces several pending cases, including robbery and attempted murder.

Shashikumar said the inspector fired warning shots before shooting the accused in the legs to prevent their escape.