Bengaluru: In a major breakthrough in the city’s techie murder case, police have arrested an 18-year-old youth who has allegedly confessed to the brutal killing of a software engineer at her residence in Subramanya Layout under the jurisdiction of Ramamurthy Nagar Police Station.
The accused, Karnal Kurai, a resident of the victim’s neighbourhood, is said to have admitted during interrogation that he had carefully planned the crime. The victim, Sharmila, was employed as a software engineer at Accenture and was found dead in her home on January 3 under suspicious circumstances.
Planned reconnaissance before attack
According to investigators, the accused conducted three rounds of reconnaissance near the victim’s house to study her daily routine, entry and exit points, and possible escape routes. On the day of the incident, he allegedly entered the house by sliding open the back door and attacked Sharmila from behind.
Police sources said that when the victim resisted, her head struck a sofa during the struggle, resulting in severe bleeding. Despite this, the accused allegedly continued the assault and attempted to sexually abuse her. He is said to have strangled her with both hands, leading to her death.
Attempt to destroy evidence
Following the murder, the accused reportedly attempted to erase evidence. During questioning, he is said to have confessed that he removed the victim’s clothes, wiped bloodstains using them and washed them with water. He later brought fresh clothes from her cupboard and dressed the body in an apparent attempt to avoid suspicion.
Investigators further revealed that he placed certain clothes, including her top, on the bed and set fire to tissue paper to create smoke inside the house, possibly to damage forensic evidence. In the process, he accidentally left behind part of the victim’s clothing, which he later threw into a neighbouring property.
The accused also allegedly stole the victim’s mobile phone, switched it off, destroyed it and fled the scene.
Forensic probe under way
Police said the forensic investigation remains crucial to establishing key aspects of the case. The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report, particularly concerning the alleged sexual assault attempt, is expected to play a decisive role.
Officials noted that no usable fingerprints were recovered either from inside the house or from the victim’s body. The smoke generated inside the residence is believed to have further compromised potential forensic traces.
Investigation continues
Investigators suspect the crime was premeditated and executed with a clear escape plan. Authorities are continuing to collect and analyse forensic evidence to strengthen the prosecution’s case.
Police have assured that all angles are being thoroughly examined to ensure a comprehensive and legally sound charge sheet. The case has sparked widespread concern across the city, highlighting issues of safety and security in residential neighbourhoods.