Udupi: Preliminary investigation into the murder of businessman and Congress leader David D’Souza at Mudarangadi has revealed that financial dealings linked to Udupi Power Corporation Ltd. (UPCL) contracts were allegedly the main reason behind the killing, Udupi Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar said on Saturday.
Financial dealings under investigation
Speaking to reporters following the arrest of three accused in connection with the shooting, the SP said investigators had identified financial dealings related to UPCL contracts as the primary line of inquiry into the motive.
According to the SP, more than Rs. 2 lakh was allegedly deposited into the bank account of Accused No. 1, Raju, who is suspected of being the person who shot D’Souza.
Police are now investigating the source of the money and identifying the persons who allegedly made the payment.
Three accused arrested
D’Souza was shot dead in broad daylight at Mudarangadi in Kapu taluk on Friday. Police subsequently arrested three persons allegedly linked to the murder.
The arrests followed a swift investigation into the shooting, with police teams tracking the accused and examining financial and other evidence connected to the case.
The SP said the investigation is continuing to establish the complete chain behind the alleged payment and the planning of the murder.
Police probe conspiracy behind killing
While the preliminary investigation has pointed towards financial dealings associated with UPCL contracts, police are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged transaction.
Investigators are also working to establish who allegedly arranged the money, who commissioned the attack and whether other persons were involved in the conspiracy.
Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.