Businessman brutally attacked by gang in Holenarsipur, old rivalry suspected

HASSAN: Unidentified assailants, armed with swords and machetes attempted to murder a businessman by hacking him to death in Holenarasipur town on Friday night. The businessman Manjegowda of Jodigubbi village was seriously injured.

Manjegowda, who owns a bar and restaurant, petrol bunk and tractor showroom, was standing near his tractor showroom on Arakalagud Road on Friday night when three men arrived on a bike, their faces covered with black cloth and wearing helmets. They attacked him with swords and machetes and escaped.

Manjegowda, who was severely injured in the attack, was given first aid at Holenarasipura Hospital and then shifted to a private hospital in Mysuru for further treatment.

Manjegowda and a person named Roopesh were business partners. Six months ago, Manjegowda had assaulted Roopesh with an iron rod over a financial dispute and an attempt to murder case was registered against Manjegowda
at the police station.

In addition, two years ago, a fight broke out at his bar with notorious history-sheeter Yachenahalli Chethu and his gang over not paying the bill after drinking heavily. Manjegowda and others had stripped and assaulted Yachenahalli Chethan and his team. At that time, Chethan had threatened to take revenge.

It is suspected that the attack may have been carried out due to old enmity. Police visited the spot and conducted an inspection. A case has been registered at Holenarasipura Town police station, and police have launched a manhunt to trace the accused based on CCTV footage.