Bengaluru: Two autorickshaw drivers have been arrested on the outskirts of Bengaluru for the brutal murder of a 35-year-old woman whose body was discovered inside a parked three-wheeler near Tilak Nagar police station on Saturday evening.
Victim identified as domestic worker and mother of four
The deceased has been identified as Salma, a domestic helper and mother of four children. According to police, Salma had lost her husband a year ago and had been in a relationship with one of the accused, Subramani alias Subbu (30), a resident of Tilak Nagar. Subramani’s friend, Sendil (28), also from the same locality, was later introduced to her and became close to her as well.
Suspects’ motive and the crime
Police investigations revealed that both Subramani and Sendil, who also worked as painters and electricians apart from driving autos, suspected that Salma had developed a friendship with another man. This jealousy allegedly led the duo to plot her murder.
On Friday night, Subramani reportedly called Salma to his residence under the pretext of resolving their differences. During the meeting, the two men allegedly assaulted her, and Subramani struck her on the head, killing her instantly. They then wrapped the body in a blanket and placed it in an autorickshaw.
Body found near police station
The autorickshaw with the body was parked close to the Tilak Nagar police station. A passerby noticed a foul smell emanating from the vehicle on Saturday evening and alerted the authorities. Police rushed to the spot and discovered the woman’s body.
Following the discovery, a special team tracked down the suspects, who had fled the area. They were apprehended within 24 hours. Both men have confessed to the crime during interrogation, police officials said.
Ongoing investigation
The Tilak Nagar police have booked the accused under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code for murder. The police are also investigating whether anyone else was involved in helping the duo dispose of the body.
The body was shifted to Victoria Hospital for post-mortem examination, and efforts are being made to contact Salma’s family members. Police officials said the motive appeared to be jealousy and betrayal arising from personal relationships.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) confirmed that both accused are in judicial custody. “It was a planned act driven by suspicion. We are verifying phone records and CCTV footage for additional evidence,” he said.