Bengaluru: A resident of Varthur in Bengaluru was left stunned after receiving a police notice linking him to a murder investigation, only to later discover that his identity documents had allegedly been misused by one of the accused.
LS Puneeth (36), a resident of Lakkondanahalli in Hoskote taluk, was summoned by police from the Marathahalli sub-division in connection with a 2024 murder case. The case, originally registered in Tamil Nadu, had been transferred to Varthur police for further investigation.
Identity misuse comes to light
According to police, while verifying mobile phone records linked to the accused, investigators traced a SIM card registered under Puneeth’s name and address. This led officers to his residence, where he was questioned regarding his alleged involvement.
During the inquiry, Puneeth claimed he had no knowledge of the case and had never applied for the SIM card in question. Upon further verification, it was revealed that one of the accused had allegedly used Puneeth’s voter ID details to obtain the SIM card.
“When the voter ID used as address proof was shown to Puneeth, he confirmed that the document number belonged to him but the photograph was different,” a police officer said.
Murder case background
The case pertains to the kidnapping and murder of 23-year-old N Revanth Kumar from Sulikunte Colony in Varthur. The crime took place on September 18, 2024, within the jurisdiction of Bagaluru police station.
Police investigations revealed that a gang of nine accused was involved in the crime. All suspects were arrested, and the case was later transferred to Varthur police in April 2025 due to its connection to the Bengaluru-based victim.
SIM card link to crime
Officials said that the SIM card obtained using Puneeth’s identity was used during the commission of the crime. The accused reportedly submitted a forged voter ID with Puneeth’s details but a different photograph at a mobile shop in Muthanallur Cross to procure the SIM.
This development raised concerns about identity theft and the misuse of official documents in criminal activities.
Complaint filed and legal action
Following the discovery, Puneeth filed a formal complaint with Varthur police, stating that his voter ID card, originally issued in 2009, had been misused without his knowledge.
Based on his complaint, police have registered additional charges against the accused, including criminal conspiracy, cheating, and impersonation.
Officials said further investigation is underway to determine how the accused obtained Puneeth’s details and whether similar instances of identity misuse have occurred.
Growing concern over identity fraud
The incident highlights the increasing risks associated with identity theft, particularly in cases where official documents are used to obtain SIM cards or other services.
Police have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to their personal identification documents. Authorities are also examining compliance with verification norms at retail outlets issuing SIM cards.
Conclusion
While Puneeth has been cleared of any involvement in the murder, the case underscores the serious implications of identity misuse in criminal investigations. As police continue their probe, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for stricter verification processes and greater awareness around safeguarding personal documents.