In the investigation into the Renukaswamy murder case, a senior police official disclosed on Monday that authorities have gathered over 200 pieces of physical and technical evidence implicating actor Darshan as the primary suspect.
The official revealed that fingerprints belonging to more than 10 suspects, including Darshan and Pavithra Gowda, have been identified on various items linked to the crime scene. These items were collected from locations such as the murder shed, the guard’s room where the body was found, the transportation vehicle, the body dump site, the victim’s attire, and the weapons used in the assault. Analysis of the suspects’ clothing also confirmed the presence of incriminating fingerprints, aligning with preliminary forensic findings.
Speaking anonymously, the officer underscored that this evidence is pivotal for the prosecution’s case during the upcoming trial.
Moreover, the investigation unearthed discrepancies in the registration of SIM cards used by Darshan, Pavithra, and other suspects. Police traced call and message records through duplicate SIM cards, discovering that Pavithra’s SIM was registered under the name of Bengaluru resident Manoj, while Darshan’s was registered under CP Hemanth’s name. Additional scrutiny revealed that other suspects had SIMs registered under aliases, further complicating the investigation.
The officer mentioned that notices have been issued to individuals whose names surfaced during the investigation, including Karthik Purohit, associated with one of the suspects, who is being re-questioned after initial interrogation placed him at the crime scene. Samatha, a friend of Pavithra Gowda, is also under investigation for allegedly making a ₹23,000 payment via mobile transfer to one of the accused.
Darshan Thoogudeepa was arrested on June 11 in connection with the murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy, reportedly a fan who had sent inappropriate messages to Pavithra Gowda.
Home Minister G Parameshwara emphasized that there would be no leniency in the investigation, asserting that due process will be followed until sufficient evidence is gathered to file a charge sheet. He reiterated the commitment of law enforcement to impartiality and thoroughness in the case.
Regarding the reappointment of Inspector Girish Naik to the investigation team, the minister clarified that such decisions are made based on administrative necessities within the police department.