Bengaluru: Four Arrested for Kadugodi Machete Murder Over Loan Dispute

Bengaluru police have apprehended four individuals in connection with the murder of a rowdy-sheeter, Puneeth alias Nepali, that occurred in Kadugodi on Tuesday night.

The arrested men — Srikanth (28), Mahesh (30), Rajesh (34), and Sumanth (35) — are all residents of east Bengaluru. Among them, Srikanth is a known offender, already facing six criminal charges. The fatal attack happened around 9:30 pm near Government College Road in Vijayalakshmi Colony.

According to police sources, Mahesh allegedly initiated the assault by striking Puneeth with a machete. The remaining three then joined in. A friend who was with Puneeth at the time sustained injuries but is currently recovering.

Investigators revealed that the suspects were familiar with Puneeth through shared criminal connections. The motive behind the murder appears to be a financial dispute. A few weeks ago, Puneeth had borrowed ₹40,000 by mortgaging his motorcycle, with Srikanth arranging the transaction. However, when Srikanth requested repayment, Puneeth responded aggressively and verbally abused him.

Angered by the insults, Srikanth reportedly contacted Mahesh, who then called Puneeth to Vijayalakshmi Colony under the pretense of resolving the issue. Another heated argument ensued, ultimately leading to the brutal machete attack.

The Kadugodi police have registered a murder case against all four accused. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of their criminal links and any additional motives behind the incident.

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