09-06-2025
Illicit affair leads to husband's brutal killing
Chikkamagaluru: In a chilling case of murder driven by an illicit affair, Chikkamagaluru police have arrested three accused, including a 33-year-old man allegedly involved in a relationship with a 55-year-old woman, who is now accused of conspiring to murder her own husband.
The incident came to light in Kadur taluk near Kansagara Gate, where the burnt body of a man was found a week ago. The deceased has been identified as Subrahmanya, a resident of Kadur town. Police say the murder was part of a premeditated plan hatched by the woman and her lover.
Subrahmanya had been reported missing by his wife Meenakshamma, who lodged a complaint at the local police station. Investigating teams, led by PSI and special squads, began probing both the missing person's case and the discovery of a charred body in the area. Technical analysis and clues led to the conclusion that both cases were linked — the missing man and the burnt body were the same.
Police interrogation revealed that Pradeep Achaar, a resident near Pleginamma Temple in Kadur, was having an illicit relationship with Meenakshamma, the victim's wife. As Subrahmanya was reportedly opposing their affair, Pradeep, along with his friends Siddesh and Vishwas, decided to eliminate him.
On the day of the crime, the trio allegedly strangled Subrahmanya with a rope inside a Maruti Omni van, then took the body to a remote location, poured petrol mixed with sawdust, and burned the body near Kansagara Gate to destroy evidence.
All three accused have now been taken into custody. Police have also seized the Maruti Omni used in the murder. The murder was carried out in exchange for money, police say, as Pradeep had allegedly lured his friends with financial offers.
The gruesome nature of the crime and the twist of an older woman–younger man relationship behind it has stunned the region. Chikkamagaluru police have intensified their probe and are preparing to file a charge sheet.
