Irshad and Hanif arrested for poisoning Phalguni river near Mangaluru causing the death of thousands of fish

Last week, people who live on the banks of the Phalguni river at Naddikkallu in Moodukodi village in Belthangady near Mangaluru were shocked to see thousands of fish dead in the river. Examination of the dead fish ascertained that they were poisoned. Local people suspected involvement of criminals in poisoning the water and a complaint was filed.

Upon investigation by the Belthangady police, it was revealed that some anti-social elements had purposefully poisoned the water. On May 5th, the police arrested Irshad and Muhammad Hanif though they suspect that many more are involved in the heinous act. Both the accused are said to be fishermen from the nearby Moodukodi village.

A team led by Belthangady Police Inspector Sandesh PG and Sub Inspector Lolakshara of Venur police station led the investigation and cracked the case. Their investigation led to the arrest of Irshad and Muhammad Hanif. The reason for their act is yet to be revealed though criminal intent has not been ruled out.

Local residents who fear a repeat of such crimial acts by anti-social elements have demanded stringent action against the accused. They have urged the police and the administration to ascertain the reason for poisoning the river water which could have killed numerous people too.