Beltangady: The process of brain mapping and narco-analysis tests has begun at the Forensic Science Laboratory in Madiwala, Bengaluru, with prior court permission, as part of the investigation into the suspicious death of 15-year-old Sumanth of Sambholya near Gerukatte in Beltangady taluk.

The investigation is being conducted under the leadership of Beltangady Circle Inspector Ravi B S.

Five family members questioned in Bengaluru

Five members of Sumanth’s family have already been taken to Bengaluru for the first phase of the investigation.

On August 10, Sumanth’s father Subrahmanya Naik and mother Ratnavathi were questioned intensively from morning until afternoon. His brother Sudarshan was subsequently questioned from afternoon until evening.

On August 11, Ratnavathi’s brother Radhakrishna and relative Lakshminarayana were questioned, and their statements were recorded.

Experts are now comparing and analysing the answers provided by the five individuals with information gathered during the investigation.

Further brain mapping tests planned

The concerned individuals have been instructed to appear for the next stage of the brain mapping process.

Police are also preparing to subject other suspects identified during the investigation to brain mapping tests.

The tests are being conducted as part of efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding Sumanth’s death and clarify the unanswered questions in the case.

Ninth-standard student died in January

Sumanth, a ninth-standard student of Gerukatte Government High School, died mysteriously on the morning of January 14, 2026, while he was reportedly on his way to a nearby temple to perform Dhanupuja.

Questions were subsequently raised over whether the death was natural. There were also suspicions that the boy may have been systematically murdered.

Police formed a special team and investigated the case from various angles. However, the circumstances surrounding Sumanth’s death remain unresolved, with no clear conclusion established so far.

The ongoing forensic procedures are expected to assist investigators in analysing the statements and evidence gathered during the investigation.