Suhas Shetty, Accused in Fazil Murder Case, Killed in Mangaluru Hacking Incident

Suhas Shetty, a 42-year-old man who had been named in the 2022 murder case of Mohammed Fazil, was killed in a brutal attack on Thursday night in Mangaluru. The incident took place in Kinnipadavu, where Shetty was traveling in a car along with five others. Their vehicle was intercepted by two others, and a group of armed attackers assaulted Shetty with swords and sharp weapons. Though he was rushed to AJ Hospital, doctors were unable to save him.

Who Was Suhas Shetty?

Suhas Shetty was a known figure in coastal Karnataka, particularly for his involvement with right-wing groups such as the Bajrang Dal. He came into the spotlight following his alleged role in the high-profile killing of Mohammed Fazil, a 23-year-old youth from Surathkal. Fazil’s murder had come shortly after the death of BJP youth leader Praveen Nettaru and was suspected to be a retaliatory act that triggered widespread communal unrest in the region.

The 2022 Fazil Case

On July 28, 2022, Mohammed Fazil was killed outside a clothing shop in Surathkal. The murder was premeditated, with Shetty and others allegedly targeting Fazil after considering several potential victims. Their plan was carried out with precision, and the vehicle used in the crime was later found abandoned in Karkala. Fazil’s murder sent shockwaves across the community, heightening religious tensions.

Arrest and Case Details

Following the killing, the Mangaluru police arrested six suspects, including Shetty. Investigations revealed that the murder was carried out in response to the killing of BJP worker Praveen Nettaru, with Fazil chosen after days of surveillance. Authorities described the act as well-coordinated and motivated by communal vengeance.

Reaction to Shetty’s Death

Suhas Shetty’s murder has further inflamed communal tensions in the coastal city. Right-wing organizations such as the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) called for a bandh (shutdown) in the Dakshina Kannada region. The protest brought normal life to a halt in several towns, including Surathkal, Ullal, and Hampankatta. Incidents of stone pelting on buses were reported, and public transportation was suspended as a precaution. Authorities also imposed a temporary ban on liquor sales in areas considered sensitive.

Police Response and Investigation

In response to the unrest, police imposed Section 144 restrictions in areas like Surathkal, Mulki, Panambur, and Bajpe, prohibiting gatherings to prevent further violence. Investigations into Shetty’s murder are ongoing, and authorities are working to identify and apprehend the attackers. Given Shetty’s background and the communal implications of the crime, law enforcement is approaching the case with heightened caution.

The incident marks another troubling chapter in a region frequently rocked by politically and communally motivated violence. With tensions still simmering, authorities are under pressure to maintain order and ensure that justice is served without provoking further conflict.