Udupi: Skeletal remains of an unidentified man were discovered in bushes along the Ambalpady stretch of the National Highway on Thursday, triggering an investigation by the police to establish the identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding his death.
Remains found in bushes along highway
The skeletal remains were noticed in a bushy area abutting the National Highway at Ambalpady. Local residents alerted social worker Vishu Shetty after spotting the remains, following which the authorities were informed. The location is frequented by commuters, but the remains appear to have gone unnoticed for a considerable period due to thick vegetation along the roadside.
Preliminary observations suggest that the body had decomposed completely, leaving behind skeletal remains, indicating that the man may have died several weeks or even months ago.
Police and social worker assist in shifting remains
After receiving information, Vishu Shetty, along with personnel from the Ambalpady police station, visited the spot. With the assistance of Ramdas Palan of Udyavara, the skeletal remains were carefully collected and shifted to the mortuary of the district hospital for further examination.
Officials said the procedure was carried out following standard protocols to preserve any material evidence that could assist in the investigation.
Complaint lodged, investigation initiated
The matter came to light on December 12, following which Vishu Shetty lodged a formal complaint at the Udupi Town Police Station. Based on the complaint, police have registered a case of unnatural death and initiated an investigation.
Officers said efforts are underway to trace missing person reports filed in recent months that may match the description of the deceased. Police are also checking records from nearby police stations and neighbouring districts to identify possible leads.
Clothing offers possible clues
Police said that the deceased was found wearing a pair of pants and a shirt, which were recovered from the scene. These clothing items may provide crucial clues in establishing the identity of the man.
The police have appealed to the public to come forward with any information if they recognise the clothing or have knowledge of a person who may have gone missing in the area during the past few months. Citizens have been urged to contact the Udupi Town Police Station or the nearest police outpost with relevant details.
Cause of death yet to be determined
Officials stated that the exact cause of death cannot be determined at this stage due to the advanced state of decomposition. A detailed medical examination and forensic analysis will be conducted to ascertain whether the death was natural, accidental or involved foul play.
Police said the post-mortem examination, along with laboratory reports, is expected to provide more clarity on the time and cause of death.
Importance of public cooperation
Investigators stressed that public cooperation would play a key role in identifying the deceased. In several past cases, timely information from citizens has helped police match unidentified bodies with missing persons and bring closure to families.
Authorities reiterated that anyone with even minor information is encouraged to share it, as it could prove significant in the investigation.
Conclusion
The discovery of skeletal remains along a busy highway has raised concerns and highlighted the challenges involved in identifying unattended deaths. As the investigation continues, police hope that medical findings and assistance from the public will help establish the identity of the deceased and shed light on the circumstances of his death.