Mangaluru: Police commissioner Vipul Kumar informed press on Friday, May 18 that a suo motu case has been registered concerning the fake news that was circulated about church attacks in the district.

He said, “A message about attack on a few churches in Mangaluru and surrounding areas was circulated on social media with the intention of creating panic among people. The accused is unidentified as of now and investigation is on. Suo moto case has been registered under section 153, 507, and 505 (2).

People glued to social media sometimes believe such fake message which can disturb peace. If we forward such fake messages without clarifying, then it is equal to accepting and endorsing it.

Investigation is on and we will find who the culprit is. I urge people to be socially responsible and not to fall prey to such fake messages. If any doubt regarding such messages, please do clarify with the police.”

8 people have been arrested for stirring up trouble at Adyar Padav on May 15, by pelting stones at a BJP procession. The arrested have been identified as Noushad, Junaid, Dawood, Sahul, Harish Poojary, Abhilash, Nithesh and Nishanth.

“We will come down heavily on those who damage religious centers, indulge in anti-social activities and create inconvenience to the general public. We have got enough forces, and also set up mobile check posts. Bad characters are under surveillance to maintain social harmony” Kumar informed.

“Those who conduct protest and procession should do it in a disciplined way. They should avail orders from the police and go ahead only after getting approval. At any cost, it should not create inconvenience to general public and should go as per law and rules,” he added.

“Usually during processions, some ask permission for bike rallies. We are adopting a single rule that there will be no permission for bike rallies. In the name of bike rally, they will violate all traffic rules, such as rash and negligent driving, no helmet, and triple ride, which create inconvenience to others. If they conduct bike rallies, we will have CCTV footage and video recording. They will be booked as per law,” he said.

DCP crime and traffic Uma Prashanth informed the public about the new dedicated number (9480802303) for traffic complaints.

“There have been a lot of issues in relation to traffic at our control room. So we decided to bring in a dedicated number for traffic complaints. Dedicated staff will handle complaints at this number,” he said.