Mangaluru North MLA Mohiuddin Bawa's brother Mumtaz Ali has gone missing and the police suspect he might have died by suicide. Ali, a businessman, had left his home at 3 am on Sunday and his BMW car was found abandoned on the Kuluru bridge in a damaged condition at 5 am. Ali's family claimed that he left his residence stating he was going to end his life.
"Initial investigations suggest a potential suicide (bid), given that the car was abandoned on the bridge and family members reported concerning statements he made before leaving the house," Mangaluru police commissioner Anupam Agarwal said, adding that he might have jumped off the bridge.
"Forensic experts and a team from the forensic science laboratory (FSL) are carefully examining the vehicle for fingerprints and other evidence to rule out any foul play," he said.
Police said that initial reports have suggested that his disappearance may be linked to personal reasons and possible blackmail. It is believed that four people from Suratkal, with whom the man had disputes related to the Masjid committee, are being investigated as part of the probe, Hindustan Times reported.
"Investigation is underway. SDRF and Coast Guard teams are searching the river and trying to find out whether he has jumped in the river or anybody is there or not," the police officer added.