Synopsis
The Karnataka government has initiated an investigation into the police encounter of a suspect involved in the sexual assault and murder of a minor girl in Hubballi. Home Minister G. Parameshwara emphasized the need to examine migrant workers' involvement in crimes. The police shot the suspect during an altercation while attempting to apprehend him.Key Takeaways
- Karnataka government orders investigation into police encounter.
- Home Minister G. Parameshwara addresses media.
- Suspect identified as Ritesh Kumar from Bihar.
- Concerns over migrant workers and crime in the state.
- Parents protest, demanding justice for their daughter.
Bengaluru, April 14 (NationPress) The Karnataka government has mandated an investigation into the police encounter involving the suspect in the tragic sexual assault and murder case of a minor girl from Hubballi.
Moreover, the government plans to scrutinize the role of migrant workers in crimes across the state.
Addressing the media on Monday, Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated, "A horrific incident occurred in Hubballi city, where a five-year-old girl was abducted and murdered by an individual from Bihar."
"He was captured shortly after. However, when the police brought him to his residence, the suspect unexpectedly attacked them, compelling the police to open fire in self-defense. He was rushed to the hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries," HM Parameshwara reported.
He further directed senior officers to conduct a thorough investigation, asserting that the truth will come to light after the inquiry.
Responding to inquiries about the involvement of migrant workers in state crimes, HM Parameshwara remarked, "Migrant laborers arrive in large numbers from various parts of the country to Karnataka. As Bengaluru continues to grow rapidly, we have noticed their participation in numerous criminal activities, which warrants our attention."
"It seems they often lack understanding of the local culture and community, leading to such unfortunate incidents. The involvement of outsiders is evident in many cases. I will consult with the Labour Department and relevant officials to explore potential measures," he stated.
"While we cannot stop their arrival, we can implement certain precautions. I will engage with the Labour Minister about this matter," HM Parameshwara added.
"We will organize a joint meeting. Reports indicate that construction workers are increasingly becoming involved in criminal acts. We will convene a meeting to address this issue," he noted in response to a question.
The Karnataka Police fatally shot the suspect linked to the abduction, alleged sexual assault, and murder of a minor girl in Hubballi on Sunday.
The suspect has been identified as 35-year-old Ritesh Kumar from Patna, Bihar.
However, law enforcement officials stated that the suspect's identity is still being verified.
The Police Commissioner for Hubballi and Dharwad, N. Shashikumar, explained: "The suspect was shot because he faced accusations of raping a five-year-old girl, and allowing him to escape was not an option. Additionally, the police had to defend themselves."
"The police employed minimum force, resulting in one bullet striking him. He was immediately transported to a hospital but did not survive his injuries," he added.
"We obtained a lead from CCTV footage and local sources, leading to the suspect's custody. During questioning, he confessed to the crime but provided inaccurate information regarding his identity," Shashikumar stated.
"The suspect claimed to be a 35-year-old named Ritesh Kumar from Patna, Bihar, stating he had been away from home for four years and arrived in Hubballi three months ago," he continued.
"He was brought to an abandoned house he claimed to be staying in for police inspection. At that moment, the suspect suddenly attacked the officers, throwing stones at the police vehicle and fleeing," he recounted.
"At that point, Police Sub-Inspector (PSI) Annapurna fired a warning shot and instructed the suspect to halt. When he continued to throw stones, the female officer discharged her weapon," Shashikumar explained.
"One bullet struck him in the leg, while another hit his back. He collapsed and was taken to the hospital to attempt to save him, but he ultimately succumbed to his injuries," he confirmed.
"PSI Annapurna, along with staff members Yashwant and Veeresh, sustained injuries," he added.
This shocking incident was reported on Sunday.
According to police reports, the suspect lured the girl to a shed and attempted to assault her. When she screamed for help, locals rushed to the scene.
Upon noticing the approaching individuals, the suspect allegedly strangled the girl and managed to flee.
N. Shashikumar mentioned earlier that the girl's parents hailed from Koppal, where her father works as a painter and her mother as a house help.
He also stated that the mother had taken the victim with her to work, and the suspect allegedly abducted the girl while she was occupied.
Subsequently, the girl's body was found in a shed.
It remains to be confirmed whether the girl was sexually assaulted, as officials indicated that a medical examination will clarify the situation.
In the meantime, the girl's parents protested outside the Ashokanagar police station, denouncing the incident and demanding strict measures against the accused.
Labour Minister Santhosh Lad visited the hospital on Monday in Hubballi and spoke with the girl's parents.
"This incident has caused civilized society to bow its head in shame. It is a barbaric act. The victim was just a little girl, and I could hardly bear to see her body. The post mortem report will determine whether she was sexually assaulted," he concluded.
