Mangaluru: A 20-year-old labourer was found dead in a well near Krishnapura Math at Chokkabettu under the jurisdiction of the Surathkal Police Station on Sunday night, July 20, in what police suspect to be a murder case. The incident has shocked residents of the locality, with police launching an investigation to ascertain the circumstances leading to the young man’s death.
The deceased has been identified as Mallikarjun (20), a native of Kushtagi taluk in Koppal district. He had been working as a labourer in Mangaluru and was staying in a rented house owned by Rekha near Chokkabettu Math along with his elder brother.
Body recovered from well
According to police, Mallikarjun’s body was recovered from a well near Krishnapura Math after information about the incident reached the authorities on Sunday night. Preliminary findings have led investigators to suspect foul play, and the case is being treated as a suspected murder.
Police personnel visited the spot, recovered the body from the well and conducted an initial inspection. The body was later shifted for post-mortem examination, which is expected to help determine the exact cause of death.
Investigators are collecting evidence from the scene and speaking to people familiar with the victim to reconstruct the sequence of events that led to the incident.
Elder brother taken into custody
As part of the investigation, police have taken Somanath (21), the deceased’s elder brother, into custody for questioning. Both brothers had been residing in the same rented accommodation near Chokkabettu Math.
Police sources said Somanath is suspected to be the prime accused in the case. However, officials have not disclosed the possible motive behind the alleged crime, stating that the investigation is still in its preliminary stages.
The questioning is expected to focus on the events leading up to Mallikarjun’s death, the brothers’ activities before the incident and any possible dispute that may have occurred.
Another youth also detained
Apart from Somanath, Surathkal police have also detained a youth residing in a neighbouring house for questioning. Investigators are examining whether he has any information that could assist in the probe or if he had any connection with the incident.
Police are recording statements from neighbours and other residents in the area to establish a clear timeline of events. They are also verifying whether anyone witnessed suspicious activity near the rented house or the well before the body was discovered.
Police continue investigation
The Surathkal police have registered a case and are pursuing multiple angles to uncover the motive and identify the exact sequence of events. Officials are awaiting the post-mortem report and forensic findings, which are expected to provide further clarity.
Police have not yet announced any formal arrest in the case. They said further action will be taken based on the outcome of the ongoing investigation and the evidence collected during questioning.
The death of the young labourer has drawn attention in the Chokkabettu area, with residents expressing concern over the incident. Authorities have appealed to anyone with relevant information to cooperate with the investigation.
Further investigation is underway.