Bhatkal: In a firm move to maintain law and order in Uttara Kannada district, the police department has externed five habitual offenders from the Murdeshwar police limits for a period of six months.

The action was taken against individuals who were allegedly involved in repeated criminal activities despite being under continuous police surveillance. The accused have been identified as Bhaskar Mahadev Naik (40), Raju Mahadev Naik (36), Keshav Hrithik Mahadev Naik (27), Ganesh Babu Naik (25), and Ganesh Chakli Jayant Naik (23), all of whom had multiple cases registered against them.

According to police sources, the movements and activities of these individuals had been closely monitored for a considerable period, and they were listed in the rowdy-sheeter register. However, as there was no sign of reform and they continued to engage in unlawful activities, authorities proceeded with externment action.

The Superintendent of Police, Uttara Kannada, had recommended action under Sections 55 (A) and (B) of the Karnataka Police Act, 1963. Acting on this recommendation, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate and Assistant Commissioner of Bhatkal passed the externment order on April 2.

As per the order, Bhaskar Mahadev Naik has been externed to Navanagar police station limits in Bagalkot district, Raju Mahadev Naik to New Town police station limits in Bidar district, and Keshav Hrithik Mahadev Naik to Betageri police station limits in Gadag district. Similarly, Ganesh Babu Naik has been sent to Gandhi Chowk police station limits in Vijayapura district, while Ganesh Chakli Jayant Naik has been externed to Chowk police station limits in Kalaburagi district.

The externment order was executed on April 5 and 6, when Murdeshwar police produced the accused before the respective police authorities in the designated districts.

Police officials stated that such stringent measures will continue in the district to effectively curb criminal activities and ensure public safety.