In a high-stakes confrontation, Udupi police apprehended notorious gangster Anuj Patil, a key figure in the murder of former Gram Panchayat President David D’Souza. Patil attempted to flee by snatching a service revolver, leading to a police shootout.

  • Notorious gangster Anuj Patil arrested after a police shootout in Udupi.
  • Patil attempted to escape by snatching a police officer's service revolver.
  • A total of 10 accused have been arrested in the David D’Souza murder case.
  • Patil has a criminal record of 11 cases, primarily under the Arms Act.

Udupi, Karnataka: The Udupi police have successfully secured Anuj Patil, a 35-year-old gangster from Bihar, following a dramatic encounter. Patil, who was a prime suspect in the brutal murder of Mudarangadi Gram Panchayat President David D’Souza, attempted to escape police custody on Monday morning, August 24, 2026. During the struggle, Patil snatched a service revolver from an officer and opened fire, prompting Police Sub-Inspector Nanja Nayak to fire at Patil's leg in self-defense.

The Criminal Profile of Anuj Patil

Anuj Patil has been a fugitive since 2017. His criminal history is extensive, spanning multiple states including Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Daman and Diu. According to official police records, Patil is accused in a total of 11 criminal cases, a staggering 10 of which fall under the Arms Act. His arrest marks a significant breakthrough in dismantling a cross-state criminal network.

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Details of the Murder Conspiracy

The investigation into the murder of David D’Souza, which occurred on August 7, 2026, has revealed a web of conspiracy involving contract disputes. Police revealed that Kishore Ram Poojary, who was arrested for orchestrating the 'supari' (contract killing), had contacted Patil to hire assassins. The motive behind the assassination was reportedly a grudge held by Poojary over the loss of a road construction contract.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this arrest effectively closes the circle of suspects in the D’Souza murder case, with 10 individuals now in custody. The case highlights the dangerous intersection of local political influence, public works contracts, and organized crime syndicates that operate across state borders.

The apprehension of a fugitive active since 2017 underscores the intense pressure and tactical precision of the Udupi police force.

The sequence of events began near the Hebri Police Station limits, where the police team was transporting Patil for further investigation. The sudden escalation—from a routine transfer to a shootout—highlights the high risk involved in handling high-profile criminals.

Did You Know?: The murder was triggered by a dispute over a UPCL contract, proving how local business interests can lead to extreme violent outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who was David D’Souza?
David D’Souza was the President of the Mudarangadi Gram Panchayat, targeted in a contract-related assassination.

2. How many people have been arrested so far?
With the arrest of Anuj Patil, the police have secured a total of 10 accused persons in connection with the murder.