Udupi: Police have arrested another absconding accused in connection with the murder of businessman David D’Souza at the St Xavier Church complex in Mudarangadi, Kaup.

David D’Souza shot dead at church complex

The murder took place on August 7 at around 3:45 pm. According to police, the accused arrived at the spot on a motorcycle, following which the pillion rider allegedly shot David D’Souza in the head with a pistol. He died at the spot.

A case was registered at the Shirva police station and an investigation was launched.

Several accused already arrested

Anmol Rastogi and Jiyahul Wajool Sheikh alias Deepak, who were allegedly directly involved in the murder, had already been arrested and produced before the court.

The first accused, Raju, was injured in a separate attempt-to-murder case involving government employees under the jurisdiction of the Byndoor police station. He is currently undergoing treatment at the district government hospital in Ajjarkad. Police said he will be taken into custody and questioned after his discharge.

Mohammed Irshad, Chirag Poojari, Sadananda Devadiga and Kishore Rama Poojari were also arrested for allegedly conspiring with the other accused and providing financial assistance for the execution of the crime. They have been produced before the court.

Bihar resident arrested in Uttarakhand

The latest arrest is that of Suraj Kumar, 31, a resident of Katnari, Sheikhpur in Bihar.

A Kundapur police team assigned special duties to trace the absconding accused apprehended Suraj Kumar near the Hani area in Uttarakhand’s Nainital district.

He was subsequently produced before the investigating officer and formally arrested. Police also seized the mobile phone allegedly used in connection with the crime from his possession.

Suraj Kumar was produced before the court on Thursday, August 20.

Investigation continues

Police are continuing their investigation to establish the role of the accused and uncover further details surrounding the murder.

The latest arrest is expected to help investigators gather additional information about the alleged conspiracy and the execution of the crime.