Congress leader David D'Souza murdered in Udupi, Karnataka; three suspects arrested

On August 7, Congress leader and former panchayat president David D'Souza was shot dead in broad daylight near St Francis Xavier Church in Padubidri, Udupi district, Karnataka. Two unidentified assailants on a motorcycle opened fire at close range; CCTV footage captured the attack as D'Souza was entering his parked car.

Police investigations led to the arrest of three suspects. The prime accused, identified as Raju, a 42‑year‑old from Uttar Pradesh, was injured in the leg during a police encounter near Ottinane/Byndoor and is being treated at Manipal Hospital. Two other suspects, Ajay Rastogi (Uttarakhand) and Jiyahul Wajool Sheikh (Bihar), were also apprehended with the help of local police. Sub‑Inspector Tejasvi, who was injured in the same encounter, is receiving treatment at a private hospital.

Authorities are probing possible financial motives and have launched searches for any remaining accomplices. The case remains under active investigation by Udupi police.