Belgaum: A man narrowly escaped an alleged assassination attempt after unidentified assailants opened fire at him while he was playing rummy at the Gymkhana Club in Belgaum on Tuesday night.
The victim, identified as Suresh Jalgara, survived the attack after pushing the armed assailants away moments before they allegedly attempted to shoot him at close range. The entire incident was captured on the club’s CCTV cameras.
According to police, five men arrived at the club. While two remained outside, three entered the premises and confronted Jalgara. One of the accused allegedly pulled out a firearm and tried to shoot him. Jalgara managed to push the attackers away, foiling the initial attempt.
The assailants then allegedly fired two rounds before fleeing the scene.
The incident has raised serious security concerns as the Gymkhana Club is located close to the office of the Belgaum Police Commissioner.
Police Commissioner Bhushan Borase visited the spot soon after the incident to review the situation. A Scene of Crime (SOCO) team also inspected the area and collected evidence.
During preliminary questioning, Jalgara alleged that the attack was an act of revenge linked to an earlier firing incident involving Prafull Patil. He claimed that associates of Patil had sent the attackers to target him. However, police have not confirmed these allegations and said the motive remains under investigation.
Jalgara has been taken to the police station for further questioning and provided police protection.
Police have launched a manhunt to trace the five absconding accused. Multiple teams have been formed, and CCTV footage is being analysed to identify and apprehend those involved.
A case has been registered at the Camp Police Station, and further investigation is underway.
