Bengaluru cops watched rowdy-sheeter's murder on CCTV, left without acting
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Two uniformed police personnel in Bengaluru allegedly watched the daylight murder of a rowdy-sheeter in J.P. Nagar on 29 June and rode away without intervening, according to CCTV footage that has gone viral on social media. The incident has triggered widespread outrage, with the department yet to issue an official response.
What the CCTV Footage Shows
The footage purportedly captures a male constable riding a motorcycle with a woman constable as pillion, both in uniform, approaching a junction in J.P. Nagar. At the junction, a group of armed assailants was repeatedly attacking Raju alias Halmurka in broad daylight.
The two personnel are seen slowing down and observing the assault from close range. As the assailants retreated toward a waiting vehicle, the constables reportedly left the spot without attempting to stop the attackers, assist the victim, or alert nearby units. The authenticity of the video is currently being verified by authorities.
Departmental Scrutiny Underway
Senior officers have confirmed that the conduct of the two personnel is under scrutiny. Efforts are underway to identify them for possible departmental action. No official statement has been issued by the department as of the time of reporting.
The incident has prompted sharp questions from Bengaluru residents about police accountability and the duty of officers to intervene when a crime is witnessed in progress.
Murder Investigation: Three Special Teams Formed
Deputy Commissioner of Police (South Division) Kona Vamsi Krishna has constituted three special teams to trace and arrest those responsible for the killing. Search operations are underway, and officials have expressed confidence in making early arrests.
Preliminary findings suggest the murder may have been a premeditated, retaliatory act linked to a homicide allegedly committed by the victim nearly a decade ago in Banashankari. Investigators are examining past gang rivalries and criminal networks to establish the full sequence of events.
The Victim's Criminal Background
Raju alias Halmurka had a long criminal record, with cases including murder, attempt to murder, and robbery. He was also an accused in the Subramanyapura double murder case, among others. Police noted, however, that no fresh cases had been registered against him in recent years.
Investigators are also probing possible links to associates of a rowdy known as 'Stand Kutti', believed to be connected to the killing. Police suspect the attack stemmed from a long-standing gang rivalry.
What Happens Next
The dual track of the investigation — the murder probe and the departmental inquiry into the constables' conduct — will likely shape how this case unfolds. With CCTV footage already in the public domain, pressure on the Bengaluru Police to act swiftly on both fronts is mounting.