By The Sampadak Express
A man accused of kidnapping and murdering a five-year-old girl in Hubballi, Karnataka, was shot dead in a police encounter on Sunday, confirmed Hubballi-Dharwad Police Commissioner N Shashi Kumar.
According to officials, the accused attempted to assault the police and pelted stones at them during a confrontation. In response, one of the officers opened fire, shooting two rounds. The accused was taken to a hospital for medical treatment but was later declared dead.
The encounter took place just hours after the brutal crime, which has sparked outrage across the city.
Victim Kidnapped While Accompanying Mother to Work
The young victim, whose family hails from the Koppal district, had accompanied her mother—who works as a housemaid and part-time assistant at a beauty parlour—to work in the Ashok Nagar locality. While the mother was occupied, an unidentified man reportedly lured the child away.
After a frantic search, the girl was found unconscious in the bathroom of an abandoned, sheet-roofed structure located just across the street from where she had gone missing. She was rushed to the hospital but was declared brought dead.
Though there are unconfirmed reports suggesting sexual assault, police officials stated that medical examinations are underway and a detailed investigation is in progress.
Public Outrage and Protests
The incident has triggered widespread anger among residents. On Sunday morning, a large crowd gathered outside the Ashok Nagar police station demanding swift justice for the child and her family. Protesters expressed frustration over safety concerns and urged authorities to ensure strict action.“
The case is being thoroughly investigated, and further details will be shared once the post-mortem and forensic reports are received,” Commissioner Kumar added.
