Excerpt:
Shivamogga police have arrested two men in connection with the murder of 70-year-old Basamma of Kumsi, four months after she was killed for her jewellery. The SP has urged senior citizens to install safety measures as investigations continue.
Shivamogga, December 2, 2025: Shivamogga district police have arrested two individuals accused of murdering a senior citizen in Kumsi four months ago. The victim, 70-year-old Basamma, was allegedly killed at her residence in a planned attack motivated by the intention to steal her gold jewellery. Superintendent of Police GK Mithun Kumar confirmed that the accused, identified as Armaan and Vikas, were taken into custody based on technical evidence and call data analysis.
Details of the incident
According to the police, Basamma was alone at home when the accused forced their way in with the intention of robbing her. Investigations revealed that they allegedly stabbed her 15 times before stealing her earrings and necklace. The duo then attempted to dispose of the body to avoid detection.
However, their plan was interrupted when a vigilant neighbour noticed unusual activity and alerted other residents. Realising that locals had become aware of their presence, the accused escaped through a window. The police later pieced together the sequence of events through surveillance analysis, mobile call records and other technical inputs, eventually tracing and apprehending the suspects.
Police advisory to senior citizens
Following the arrests, SP GK Mithun Kumar issued a public appeal urging senior citizens, especially those living alone, to adopt additional safety measures. He stressed the importance of installing security cameras, alarm systems and promptly reporting suspicious movements in their neighbourhoods.
The SP noted that such preventive steps can significantly reduce vulnerabilities and aid the police in responding swiftly to potential threats. He emphasised that the department remains committed to safeguarding the wellbeing of elderly residents through continued outreach and awareness drives.
Zero-tolerance stance on drugs
During the briefing, SP Kumar also highlighted the district police’s intensified efforts to curb drug-related offences. He stated that the department has adopted a zero-tolerance policy, with ganja-related cases witnessing a rise this year. A total of 420 cases have been registered across the district, with more than half originating from Shivamogga city.
Proactive checks have been conducted, with 4,209 individuals tested so far, out of which 420 were found to have consumed ganja. Police teams are undertaking area domination exercises, picking up suspects and expanding coverage across the district to disrupt drug networks.
Use of technology and community engagement
To aid anti-drug operations, drones are being deployed to capture images and track suspected peddlers. Awareness programmes are also being carried out on a large scale, with 613 sessions organised until 30 November. These initiatives aim to educate students, parents and the general public about the dangers of substance abuse.
SP Kumar further stated that 929 random raids have been conducted based on public complaints, and a dedicated task force has been established to intensify surveillance and enforcement. According to police data, most individuals consuming ganja fall within the 18–20 age group and are often college dropouts. The supply chains primarily originate from neighbouring districts and states rather than local sources.
Commitment to community safety
The police reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and safety in the region. Through a combination of vigilant policing, public cooperation and expanded awareness efforts, authorities aim to deter both violent crimes and drug-related activities. The arrest of the two accused in Basamma’s murder marks a significant step forward in delivering justice while also underscoring the importance of community alertness in preventing such tragedies.
Tags: Shivamogga police, senior citizen safety, crime investigation, drug awareness, community policing
Meta title: Shivamogga police arrest two for Kumsi senior citizen murder
Meta description: Shivamogga police arrest two men for the murder of 70-year-old Basamma in Kumsi. SP urges senior citizens to adopt safety measures as drug-control efforts intensify.