Business rivalry behind furniture shop fire in Chikkamagaluru, three arrested

Chikkamagaluru, : In a revelation, police investigation has uncovered that the recent fire incident at a furniture shop on I.G. Road in Chikkamagaluru was not accidental but a pre-planned act driven by business rivalry.

The incident occurred last Sunday at A.R. Furniture, where a sudden fire broke out and quickly engulfed the premises. Despite prompt action by the fire department, furniture worth several lakhs of rupees was completely destroyed in the blaze.

Initially suspected to be an accidental fire, possibly due to electrical issues, the case took a dramatic turn after the Chikkamagaluru city police began a detailed probe. Officers examined CCTV footage from the area, which indicated that the fire had been deliberately set.

Further investigation revealed the involvement of Harris, the owner of a neighboring shop, Maharaja Furniture. According to police, Harris had been facing poor business compared to the flourishing A.R. Furniture next door. Motivated by jealousy and resentment, he allegedly plotted to destroy his competitor’s shop.

Police said Harris hired two individuals, Saad and Yakoob, and paid them Rs 20,000 to carry out the act. The accused reportedly entered the premises at night and set the shop on fire.

“All three accused Harris, Saad, and Yakoob have been arrested. During the initial investigation, we ruled out electrical short circuit as the cause. CCTV evidence helped us crack the case quickly,” a police official said.

The fire is estimated to have caused losses of around Rs 6 to 7 lakh to the shop owner. A case has been registered at the Chikkamagaluru city police station, and further investigation is underway.