SIT Traces Evidence in Dharmasthala Mass Murder Case
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Dharmasthala multiple murders, rapes, and burials case has reportedly recovered crucial evidence during recent inspections in Bengaluru. According to PTI, the evidence was collected while investigators escorted accused CN Chinnaiah from Belthangady in Dakshina Kannada district to the state capital over the weekend.
The SIT is intensifying its probe into one of Karnataka’s most shocking crime cases, which has drawn nationwide attention for its disturbing details and the number of people involved.
Mahazar Proceedings and Seizures
Officials confirmed that the SIT carried out mahazar proceedings (spot inspections) at several locations across Bengaluru. These visits led to the seizure of documents, digital records, and property files, which investigators believe will strengthen the case timeline and witness accounts.
Sources revealed that investigators scrutinized bank transactions, property-related documents, and communication records associated with Chinnaiah and his network. These records are expected to play a critical role in establishing links between the accused, their financial dealings, and possible cover-up attempts.
Accused Cooperates With Probe
During the inspections, Chinnaiah cooperated with investigators by identifying locations and providing details of past meetings and exchanges. The SIT recorded his statements and cross-verified them with existing forensic and technical evidence.
Among the sites visited were Chinnaiah’s residences and a service apartment in Vidyaranyapura, which he reportedly used for meetings with associates. Investigators believe these locations could yield valuable leads, especially with digital records retrieved from the premises.
A source also indicated that the human skull previously submitted in Belthangady was handed back to Chinnaiah in Bengaluru. However, the purpose of this handover has not been officially clarified.
Return to Belthangady and Next Steps
After completing the inspections, the SIT and Chinnaiah returned to Belthangady on Sunday. He remains in custody for further questioning, with officials hinting at more searches in the coming days if new leads surface.
The SIT’s focus will now shift to analyzing the seized documents and digital records. Cross-verification with forensic inputs and witness testimonies is expected to determine whether more suspects or accomplices can be implicated.
Wider Impact of the Case
The Dharmasthala case has stirred widespread debate in Karnataka, with calls for transparency and faster justice. Legal experts note that SIT investigations of this scale often take months, given the volume of forensic evidence and the complexity of financial and property transactions.
Social activists argue that such high-profile cases expose loopholes in law enforcement and the urgent need for better protection of vulnerable communities. They have urged authorities to ensure that the survivors and witnesses receive adequate protection as the case unfolds.