A Nigerian national was killed in a violent altercation at a chicken market in Bellahalli, Bagalur, India, following accusations of suspicious behaviour, police said on Friday.

The victim, identified as 40-year-old Adiyako Masaliyo, reportedly visited the market with an associate when he was confronted by Yasin Khan, a worker at the shop.

Khan accused Masaliyo of being a drug peddler, leading to an argument that quickly escalated.

According to police reports, Masaliyo allegedly assaulted Khan and grabbed a knife from the shop, threatening to stab him. In response,

Khan struck him on the head with a wooden reaper. Masaliyo suffered severe head injuries and attempted to flee but collapsed shortly after.

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He was later pronounced dead.

Investigators found no drugs or suspicious items on Masaliyo’s person, nor did they uncover any prior criminal records against him. Authorities have arrested Khan on murder charges as investigations continue.

“We have registered a case of murder and arrested the accused,” the officer said.

The Nigerian embassy in India has been informed of the incident. The case has sparked concerns among Nigerians, with some linking it to racial profiling and violence against African nationals in India.