The coastal region of Karnataka has a strong presence of Hindu right-wing organisations, with Bajrang Dal active in Mangalore and Udupi districts while Hindu Jagran Vedike more active in the region of Honnavar, Bhatkal, Kumki and Murdeshwar, said a local. The ones who were involved in the attack were allegedly members of the Bajrang Dal. According to Mohammed Ismail, a relative of one of the victims, Mohammed Ismail, Nur-ul-Ameen Mukhtasar (40) and Ghufran Pothe (35) were returning to Bhatkal on Wednesday night at around 11:30 pm after purchasing two buffalos and a bull from Ankola. A group of more than hundred right-wing activists forcefully stopped their Bolero pickup vehicle near Karki NH-66 and assaulted them causing severe injuries to the body. As per Karnataka laws, the sale of beef is not illegal and consequently, the three animals were being brought to Bhatkal for a wedding, locals confirmed. Nur-ul-Ameen was beaten in such a way that his one hand was fractured and also sustained grievous head and body injuries. Another victim Ghufran too was beaten badly and he received multiple injuries on his back and stomach.