In a shocking incident, city-based realtor CJ Roy, head of the Confident Group, allegedly died by suicide after shooting himself at his office on Langford Road near Richmond Circle on Thursday evening, during an ongoing Income Tax (IT) raid.
Incident during questioning
According to police sources, the incident occurred around 5 pm while IT officials were conducting searches at Roy’s office as part of an investigation into alleged tax evasion. Eyewitness accounts suggest that Roy was questioned by IT officials for nearly an hour before he suddenly pulled out a firearm and shot himself.
Officials present at the scene reportedly managed to wrest the gun away and immediately alerted emergency services. Roy was rushed to Narayana Hrudayalaya hospital, where doctors declared him dead.
Questions over firearm possession
Roy had been facing IT scrutiny for the past three years, and sources said he was under considerable pressure due to the investigation. However, the incident has raised serious questions, particularly regarding how Roy retained access to a firearm despite strict protocols during IT raids, where personal belongings are usually secured.
Police probe underway
The Bengaluru Police have launched a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central Division) Akshay Machhindra Hakay is leading the probe.
Police are questioning the eight IT officials who were present at the time of the incident. Investigators are also examining CCTV footage from the office premises, analysing Roy’s mobile phone records, and searching for any suicide note or digital evidence that could shed light on his state of mind.
No foul play ruled out yet
Authorities said the investigation will focus on establishing a clear sequence of events and determining whether there was any lapse in procedure or external pressure that contributed to the tragedy. While no foul play has been confirmed so far, officials have not ruled out any angle.
The incident has sent shockwaves through Bengaluru’s real estate and business circles, raising concerns about mental health pressures faced by individuals under prolonged financial and legal scrutiny.