Attack on African nationals: Police begin suo motu probe

The City police on Wednesday registered a suo motu case and intensified the investigations into the Monday night’s attack on African nationals at Byrathi in east Bengaluru.

However, no official complaint has been lodged with the police by the victims till late Wednesday night.

“The African nationals have not filed any complaint with the police. I have asked the police to conduct an inquiry and directed them to hold peace committee meetings in the locality. I appeal to locals not to take law into their hands,” Home Minister K J George said.

A group of local residents had beaten up the African nationals, injuring six of them on Monday night.

As the attacks took place at different locations falling under the jurisdiction of North-East and East division police, the Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) of both the divisions have swung into action and are leading the probe.

“We are investigating the incident from all angles. We are convinced that it is not a case of racial attack,” DCP (East) N Satheesh Kumar told Deccan Herald.

According to the police, a gang attacked a few African students in Byrathi Layout in Kothanur police limits.

Later, an African national rushed inside the Century Pub and Bar as he was chased by a few local youths. He was assaulted inside the pub.

“Attacks took place at two separate places. They could either be separate incidents or continuation of the same. We are tracing the person who suffered head injuries and the gang that carried out the attacks. It might take some time to come to a logical conclusion,” Kumar said.

Kumar and DCP (North East) Vikash Kumar Vikash visited the pub on Wednesday. The DCPs collected details of the incident from the pub management.

Additional Commissioner of Police Alok Kumar said the victims are unwilling to lodge complaints fearing further attacks.

The local residents have complained to the police about the obscene and objectionable activities of African students. A peace meeting of both the factions would be held soon, he said.