Major Arrest in Praveen Nettaru Murder Case at Kannur Airport
The National Investigation Agency has made a significant breakthrough in the Praveen Nettaru murder case by arresting fugitive Abdul Rahman at Kannur Airport. This arrest is pivotal in the ongoing investigation into the 2022 murder of a BJP Youth Front member, which is believed to be part of a larger conspiracy aimed at inciting communal unrest. Rahman had been evading capture for nearly two years after fleeing to Qatar. The case has now seen a total of 28 individuals charged, highlighting the extensive nature of the investigation.
| Jul 4, 2025, 18:03 IST
Significant Arrest in Ongoing Investigation
In a significant development regarding the Praveen Nettaru murder case, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) apprehended a key fugitive, Abdul Rahman, at Kannur International Airport on Friday (July 4) as he returned from Qatar. This arrest marks a crucial step in the ongoing investigation into the 2022 murder of a member of the BJP Youth Front. Rahman had been evading capture for nearly two years after fleeing to Qatar following the arrest of the main assailants. He was one of six fugitives for whom the NIA had announced a cash reward; a bounty of ₹4 lakh was offered for his capture.
Involvement in a Broader Conspiracy
Involvement in a Broader Conspiracy
Rahman was among four individuals charged by the NIA in April this year, bringing the total number of accused in this case to 28. Investigations revealed that he provided shelter to the attackers and other key conspirators under the directives of the banned Popular Front of India (PFI) leadership.
Targeted Killing to Incite Communal Tensions
Targeted Killing to Incite Communal Tensions
The brutal murder of Praveen Nettaru occurred on July 26, 2022, in Bellare village of Sullia taluk in the South Canara district. Alleged PFI members attacked Nettaru with sharp weapons. According to the NIA, this act was part of a larger conspiracy aimed at instilling terror in the region and inciting communal unrest.