Belagavi Police Launches Anti-Stabbing Squads to Curb Rise in Knife-Related Violence

BM TEAM

Belagavi: In response to a recent stabbing incident involving two minors on a city bus, the Belagavi City Police have formed dedicated Anti-Stabbing Squads aimed at curbing the increasing menace of youths carrying knives, swords, and other dangerous weapons in public spaces.

The move comes after a student was attacked over a dispute for a window seat, drawing attention to the growing trend of minors and young adults possessing sharp weapons. The squads, each comprising five to six officers, have been deployed across the city to conduct random searches of bags, vehicles, and individuals suspected of carrying weapons.

Police Commissioner Bhushan Borase stated that anyone found in possession of knives or similar weapons without valid reason will face legal action under the Arms Act.” In addition, we will open rowdy sheets against such individuals, requiring them to report to local police stations during festivals and major public events”, he added.

The initiative also targets individuals using weapons to create fear in public. In one such case, a man displaying a sword near railway tracks in Gandhi Nagar was arrested by Mal-Maruti police. He had allegedly been trying to intimidate passersby.

Among recent arrests:

Afsar Abdul Bashir Shaikh, a resident of New Gandhi Nagar, was apprehended near Sambra Bridge while carrying sharp weapons on his scooter. His vehicle was seized, and he was booked under the Arms Act.

Manju Yallappa Seetimani from Majgaon was caught with a sword and a woodcutter tool, which police believe could have been used for violent purposes.

Rahul Jyotiba Jadhav, a known rowdy-sheeter, was nabbed in Shahu Nagar with 2.20 grams of heroin. He now faces charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

The police urge the public to refrain from carrying any kind of weapon without proper authorization, emphasizing that maintaining public safety remains a top priority.