Madikeri: Kodagu police have arrested five individuals, including a short film director, in connection with the murder of coffee estate owner Pradeep Koili, whose body was discovered at his home in Kongana village on April 23. The key accused, NS Anil (25), is an aspiring filmmaker and actor from Mugutageri village.
Pradeep Koili, originally from Kannur, Kerala, had been living alone at his plantation under B Shettigeri Gram Panchayat. He was found strangled with a nylon rope, sparking widespread concern in the local community. A 12-member police team was formed to crack the case.
Kodagu SP Ramarajan confirmed the arrest of Anil along with four others: Harish TS (29) of Nalluru, Deepak (21) of Abburukatte, Stefen D’Souza (26) of Nerugalale, and Karthik HM (27) of Hithalamakki. All five have been remanded to judicial custody.
Preliminary investigations suggest Anil, under personal and financial strain after a failed marriage proposal, planned the murder to obtain quick wealth. He had earlier defrauded several people in Bengaluru, Hassan, and Kodagu by posing as a “hidden treasure” expert.
In this case, Anil posed as a representative of foreign buyers interested in Koili’s estate. He initially paid Koili Rs 1 lakh to win his confidence. CCTV footage and other evidence revealed efforts by the accused to destroy cameras and bury the body.
Police recovered ₹13 lakh in stolen cash, two bikes, three phones, and property-related documents.
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