Stun gun goes off accidentally at BJP office, 10 injured

The incident occurred during Bellary corporator Sanjay’s visit to the district BJP office on Moka Road. Purushottam, a constable attached to the District Armed Reserve Police, was deputed as a gunman for Sanjay, who was accompanied by Vinod, chairperson of the Bellary Urban Development Authority.

As soon as the duo entered the office, gunshots were heard, creating a panic. Twenty rounds of ammunition were fired from the 9mm stun gun. A major tragedy was averted as all the bullets hit the floor.

More than ten persons, who were present in the office, suffered minor injuries in the incident. Sanjay had identified himself with former health minister Sriramulu till candidates were announced for the Bellary Rural bypoll.

However, he shifted his loyalty to the BJP after Gadilingappa was nominated the party candidate. He had orally requested the police for protection and Purushottam was deputed as his gunman on Tuesday evening.

Superintendent of Police Dr Chandragupta told reporters that Purushottam had completed his arms training recently and that his negligence was to blame for the mishap.

He said a DySP would be asked to probe the incident. The constable did not sustain any injuries and he had been taken into custody. Twelve bullets were found at the office.

All the injured went to a hospital on their own and are stated to be out of danger.
Virupaksha Gowda, the district BJP president and K Ramalingappa, the Central Relief Committee president, said there would have been causalities if the fire arm had tilted from its position.