Shocking Photo of Victim's Body and Accused’s Footwear Becomes Crucial Breakthrough in Gruesome April 27 Gang-Rape and Murder; 125 Witnesses Present, 35 Statements Recorded, Police Say Cricket Match Continued Amid Horror
Mangaluru: In a major breakthrough, Mangaluru City Police have cracked the gruesome gang-rape and murder case that rocked Kudupu on April 27, thanks to a single blurry photograph and forensic analysis of footwear left at the crime scene.
The disturbing case involved 38-year-old Ashraf, a native of Malappuram district in Kerala, who was brutally gang-raped and murdered in public. A photograph showing the lower legs and footwear of four unidentified men standing near his naked body turned out to be the critical lead for the police.
According to the authorities, the picture — taken by a bystander — didn’t reveal the faces of the perpetrators. But one pair of muddy, discolored shoes stood out, eventually becoming the thread that investigators would follow to identify the culprits.
“One pair of shoes was very dirty and its original color was unclear. This slowed down our identification efforts a bit. However, we were able to identify the accused through the forensic science laboratory report and local intelligence information,” said Police Commissioner Sudhir Kumar Reddy, while addressing the media.
Investigators sent the footwear to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and began tracing over 20 suspects, using tread patterns and material analysis. Simultaneously, local intelligence units were deployed to gather on-ground evidence.
Police sources confirmed that over 125 people were present during the incident. The police have so far recorded 35 eyewitness statements and collected oral evidence from more than 10 individuals. The motive? Ashraf had removed a flag displayed at a local cricket match, triggering the brutal mob attack.
“Two men began the assault. Then, the crowd joined in. Ashraf tried to flee but was chased, beaten, and killed. Shockingly, the cricket match continued, even as Ashraf lay lifeless nearby,” said an officer.
The lack of CCTV surveillance in the area posed a serious challenge for the investigators. However, it was the photograph taken by a bystander that gave police a vital starting point.
“Some progress was made in the initial stages. But a photo allegedly taken by a bystander proved to be a key piece of evidence,” Commissioner Reddy reiterated.
Meanwhile, rumours about the former corporator’s husband Ravindra alias "Pistol Ravi" being involved were strongly dismissed by the commissioner.
“There is no evidence suggesting his involvement or that he instigated the mob. The investigation is ongoing,” he clarified.
Police are also taking measures to ensure that key accused do not get bail and have appealed to the public to report valid information directly to the police instead of sharing it on social media.
“If anyone has concrete evidence, please approach the police and register a complaint. Do not circulate sensitive information irresponsibly on social platforms,” urged the commissioner.
The investigation remains active, and the police are confident that all culprits will be brought to justice.
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