Sullia: In a shocking incident, Congress leader Ismail Bellare was murdered in broad daylight near Ivarnadu mosque in Sullia on Friday afternoon.

It is said that he was returning after Friday prayers when he was stopped and attacked by a gang with swords; he suffered severe injuries and succumbed at the spot. The attackers managed to flee the spot.

Prior to going for prayers at the mosque, Ismail had attended a court case at Sullia.

It is said that old enmity was the reason for the attack. Sources say that about two years ago an attempt was made to murder him at Gandhi Nagar, Sullia.