Bhaskar Shetty murder: Accused tried to destroy evidence in three rivers

Udupi, Aug 16: Accused in NRI businessman Bhaskar Shetty murder had tried destroy the evidence in three rivers, according to a senior police officer.

Investigation into July 28 missing-tuned-murder case has revealed that after burning the body of Shetty at a house in Nandalike, the bones and ashes were dumped in Pallihole. The homa kunta tiles and bricks used were discarded at Sacharipete stream, and pepper spray used during the murder was also thrown into another river nearby.

Udupi superintendent of police KT Balakrishna said that three investigating teams had been able to recover some evidence that would strengthen the case against the accused.

“We were able to arrest five persons and get new information on the case. All the accused, including astrologer Niranjan Bhat, were taken to the crime spots, based on their statements," Mr Balakrishna said.

The SP, who is currently leading the case, said that with the right guidance, investigation is going on systematically. “We are not ignoring any points but cannot reveal much to the media. Investigation Officer Sumana, who was charged with taking the accused to a posh hotel, has explained that it was not a star hotel, but the only restaurant on the way. Taking the accused there was not done with the intention to support them," he said.

The forensic report is yet to be sent to Bengaluru and police claim the procedure is still going on. "After getting the accused in custody, we've got enough clues on the murder. We are exploring all angles of the case," mr Balakrishna said.

Regarding allegations that Manipal inspector Girish was supporting the accused, he said the policeman had been removed from the case and an internal enquiry is going on. No action will be taken against him until it is proved he was supporting the accused, he added.

Experts from the forensic and DNA departments are providing technical support, he said. Regarding allegations that police was ignoring Shetty's mother Gulabi Shetty's statement about two more suspects, he said the case had progressed due to her complaint, and all her doubts would be cleared soon.

More evidence recovered

The police have meanwhile reportedly recovered some clothes which were allegedly used in the murder of Bhaskar Shetty, from a laundry shop, at Nitte.

Bhaskar Shetty's wife Rajeshwari and son Navneeth Shetty are the main accused in this murder. Niranjan Bhat, his father Srinivas Bhat and driver Raghavendra are also co-accused in this case, with the last two being arrested for destruction of evidence.

52-year-old Bhaskar Shetty, who owned business establishments in Saudi Arabia and Udupi, was reported missing on July 28 amid strong rumours that he had irreconcilable differences with his wife. Later, it was found that he was murdered and the body remains, mostly urns of ashes, were buried or thrown into river.