Bantwal Murder: 15 Booked in Brutal Killing of Mosque Secretary Abdul Rahim

Bantwal, Karnataka | May 28, 2025 —
In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through the Dakshina Kannada district, an FIR has been registered against 15 individuals in connection with the murder of Abdul Rahim (32), secretary of Kolthamajalu Jumma Masjid, and the attempted murder of Kalandar Shafi. The case has been filed at the Bantwal rural police station.

The Incident

On May 27, Abdul Rahim and Kalandar Shafi were transporting sand in a pickup truck to the residence of a man named Rajeevi in Ira Kodi, Kuryal village. According to the complaint, they were suddenly attacked by a group of 15 men, including two locals identified as Deepak and Sumit Acharya, who were known to both victims. 

The assailants allegedly dragged Abdul Rahim from the driver's seat and brutally assaulted him with swords, knives, and iron rods. When Kalandar Shafi tried to intervene, he was stabbed in the chest, back, and hand, and slashed with a sword. As locals began to raise an alarm, the attackers fled the scene with their weapons. 

Aftermath and Investigation

While being rushed to the hospital, a severely injured Kalandar Shafi managed to identify two of the attackers, Deepak and Sumit, as acquaintances. This information was conveyed to the police by Mohammad Nisar, who admitted Shafi to the hospital and subsequently filed the complaint. 

Abdul Rahim succumbed to his injuries and was known for his role as secretary of the Kolthamajalu Jumma Masjid. Kalandar Shafi, a daily wage labourer, also had a good reputation among local residents. The complaint suggests that the assailants may have committed the crime out of communal hatred or other motives. 

Community Response

The incident has sparked outrage among community members and local leaders. Many have called for swift justice and measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The police are continuing their investigation, and further details are awaited.