Beltangady: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged mass burial case reported from Dharmasthala village seized an old mobile phone belonging to Girish Mattannavar on Thursday as part of the ongoing investigation.
According to sources, Mattannavar appeared before the SIT office in Beltangady after receiving a notice from the investigation team directing him to hand over his old Android mobile phone for forensic examination.
Sources said he arrived at the SIT office at around 11 am and submitted the device to the officials. The Scene of Crime Officers (SOCO) team reportedly took possession of the phone and completed the required mahazar procedures in connection with the seizure process.
The development is being viewed as part of the SIT’s efforts to collect digital evidence and examine all possible leads related to the alleged case, which has attracted considerable public attention in recent weeks.
Device sent for forensic examination
Officials associated with the investigation are expected to subject the seized mobile phone to forensic analysis to determine whether it contains any information relevant to the alleged case.
Sources indicated that the SIT had specifically requested the old device as investigators believed it could contain communication records, photographs, location details or other digital data that may assist in the probe.
Forensic examination of electronic devices has become a routine and important aspect of criminal investigations, especially in cases involving serious allegations and extensive timelines. Investigators generally examine call records, deleted files, social media activity and other digital footprints to verify statements and establish timelines.
Though officials have not publicly disclosed the exact relevance of the phone in the present investigation, the seizure is understood to be part of a broader evidence-gathering exercise being carried out by the SIT.
Investigation continues under SIT supervision
The alleged mass burial case from Dharmasthala village has been under investigation by the Special Investigation Team following directions from the state authorities. The SIT has been collecting statements, verifying claims and examining available records connected to the matter.
Officials have maintained that the investigation is being conducted in a systematic and impartial manner. The team is reportedly coordinating with forensic experts and other technical personnel wherever necessary to ensure scientific examination of evidence.
Sources said the SIT has been questioning several individuals and gathering supporting materials to establish the facts surrounding the allegations. Investigators are also said to be documenting every stage of evidence collection through official procedures and mahazars.
The seizure of Mattannavar’s mobile phone is considered one among several procedural steps being undertaken as part of the inquiry. Authorities have not released additional details regarding findings from the investigation so far.
Public attention on the case
The alleged case has drawn significant attention across the coastal region, with many closely following developments related to the SIT investigation. The involvement of forensic experts and specialised officers indicates the seriousness with which the authorities are handling the matter.
Legal experts note that digital devices often play a crucial role in modern investigations due to the amount of personal and communication data stored on smartphones and electronic gadgets. Such evidence, once verified through forensic methods, can assist investigators in corroborating statements and identifying inconsistencies.
At the same time, officials have urged the public not to speculate on the case while the investigation is ongoing. Authorities have reiterated that conclusions can only be drawn after detailed examination of all evidence collected during the probe.
The SIT is expected to continue further inquiries and forensic procedures in the coming days as part of its investigation into the alleged mass burial case.