Coorg: Worker dies after being shot by security guard

Madikeri: A plantation worker was fatally shot while climbing a jackfruit tree in Chembebellur village near Virajpet on December 27.

The victim, identified as Panni Erava Ponnu (21), lived in a plantation line house with his wife, Geetha. The accused, Porkanda Chinnappa, a security guard from Bankenda, has been arrested by the Virajpet Rural Police. The firearm used in the incident was seized from the accused.

Incident details:

Ponnu and his wife Geetha had recently moved to the plantation owner’s line house in Chembebellur. On the evening of December 27, Ponnu attempted to pluck tender jackfruits from a tree at the edge of the plantation. At this moment, Chinnappa allegedly confronted Ponnu, hurled abuses, and then shot him.

Ponnu, who sustained critical injuries, was rushed to Virajpet Hospital by his wife and the plantation owner. However, he succumbed to his injuries before receiving treatment.

Police action

The Virajpet Rural Police have registered a case and are investigating the incident. Chinnappa has been taken into custody, and the weapon has been secured for further examination.