BENGALURU: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged mass burial cases in Dharmasthala searched a service apartment in BK Layout, Vidyaranyapura, on Sunday. The operation followed leads provided by the complainant, who along with three others is believed to have stayed at the premises prior to approaching the police.
Three-hour search in Vidyaranyapura
According to sources, SIT officials inspected the apartment for nearly three hours, during which they collected CCTV footage, booking details, and questioned staff members. The search was carried out in the presence of the complainant.
Officials said the complainant had mentioned in his statement that he stayed in the apartment with activist Jayanth, Sujatha Bhat — who claims to be the mother of Ananya Bhat, the complainant — and activist Girish Mattananavar. The group had allegedly held discussions at the apartment before lodging a complaint in the mass burial case.
Spot inspection at activist’s residence
A day earlier, on Saturday, the SIT conducted a mahazar at activist Jayanth’s house in Peenya. Investigators said the complainant had stayed there twice around four months ago. Although Jayanth was not present during the inspection, SIT officers spoke to his two children.
Background of the case
The Dharmasthala mass burial case has drawn widespread attention after allegations surfaced regarding multiple bodies being buried under suspicious circumstances. Activists have pressed for a thorough probe, while urging the authorities to ensure the complainant’s safety.
On Sunday, during the apartment search, SIT officials reiterated that all leads mentioned in the complainant’s statement were being followed up to corroborate evidence. Further searches and questioning are expected in the coming days.
The investigation remains ongoing, with the SIT yet to release an official statement on its findings from the Vidyaranyapura search.