In a swift breakthrough, Vijayapura Police have arrested four accused less than three days after the brutal murder of notorious criminal Bagappa Harijan. The murder occurred on Tuesday night in Madina Nagar under the jurisdiction of Gandhi Chowk Police Station.
SP Police Laxman Nimbargi confirmed the arrests, stating that all four suspects would be remanded to judicial custody, with the possibility of seeking further interrogation if necessary. The arrested individuals are Prakash alias Pintu Lakshmana Melnikeri (26), Rahul Bheemashankar Talakeri (20), Renuka Kamble (20), and Manikantha alias Gadigeppa Shankrappa Benakoppa (27). Police have also seized the weapons and vehicles used in the crime.
The murder was committed by a group of assailants, led by Prakash, who attacked Harijan using a pistol, axe, and machete. The motive behind the crime was linked to a financial dispute. According to SP Nimbargi, Harijan had business dealings with advocate Ravi Malinakeri, who was murdered in Vijayapura a few months ago. After Ravi’s death, Harijan allegedly pressured Ravi’s younger brother, Prakash Melikaeri, to transfer his brother’s wealth to him, which angered Prakash and led to the decision to eliminate Bagappa Harijan.
A case was registered based on a complaint filed by Gangubai Harijan, the daughter of the deceased. The investigation is ongoing, and further details may emerge.
