A missing-person complaint in Bengaluru has led police to uncover a shocking case involving seven members of a family. What began as a search for missing relatives soon turned into a murder investigation, with suspicion falling on someone within the family.
The accused, a cab driver named Indushekhar, is now at the centre of the probe. What led police to him, what triggered the alleged killings and how did the case unfold? Here's what we know so far.
What Happened In Bengaluru?
The victims have been identified as Indushekhar's wife Sunitha, his mother-in-law Roopavati, her sons Shivakumar and Shankar, their wives Divya and Nalini, and Shankar's seven-year-old son Puneeth.
According to preliminary police findings, the alleged killings took place at the accused's house near Bhashyam Circle in Rajajinagar.
Investigators suspect that Indushekhar first killed Sunitha using a grinding stone. He allegedly wrapped her body in cloth and disposed of it near Nandi Hills in Karnataka's Chikkaballapur district.
He then allegedly invited his brothers-in-law, Shivakumar and Shankar, to his house for a party. The two men were reportedly killed, followed by their wives, his mother-in-law and the seven-year-old boy.
Police have recovered Puneeth's body near the foothills of Nandi Hills. The other six bodies are yet to be found.
What Led To The Alleged Killings?
Indushekhar and Sunitha had been married for around 20 years. According to police, the couple frequently argued over Sunitha's visits to her parental home.
Police suspect that Indushekhar resented her continued association with her mother and brothers, particularly the support they reportedly provided during disagreements between the couple.
Family members had allegedly attempted to resolve their differences, but the disputes continued.
Investigators suspect that this resentment may have played a role in the killings. However, the exact motive and circumstances are still being examined.
How Did The Case Come To Light?
The case surfaced after Nalini's mother approached Srirampura Police Station with a missing-person complaint on 3 November.
The family had reportedly become concerned after several relatives went missing and their mobile phones were switched off.
During the investigation, police began questioning Indushekhar. His alleged involvement in the disappearances emerged during the questioning, leading to his arrest.
According to police sources, he allegedly switched off Sunitha's phone after her death and told neighbours that she had gone on a trip.
Investigators also suspect that he used chemicals to clean the house and remove bloodstains after the killings.
What Action Have The Police Taken?
Police have registered a murder case at Rajajinagar Police Station and arrested Indushekhar, who reportedly confessed to the killings. They are verifying his claims and the locations where he allegedly dumped the bodies.
While initial reports cited a two-day timeline, Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh said the accused claimed the killings spanned 15–20 days. This is still being verified.
Police have seized the car and suspected murder weapon, a grinding stone. A special team is searching for the remaining six bodies and probing whether anyone assisted him, including his minor daughter, whose involvement remains unestablished.
TL;DR | News At A Glance
Who is the accused in the Bengaluru family murder case?
The accused is Indushekhar, a cab driver from Bengaluru's Rajajinagar area.
Who were the seven victims?
His wife Sunitha, mother-in-law Roopavati, brothers-in-law Shivakumar and Shankar, their wives Divya and Nalini, and seven-year-old Puneeth.
Why did he allegedly kill them?
Police suspect that repeated marital disputes over Sunitha's visits to her parental home and her family's support for her may have contributed to the killings.
How did the case come to light?
A missing-person complaint filed by Nalini's mother on 3 November prompted the investigation.
How many bodies have been recovered?
Police have recovered one body, that of seven-year-old Puneeth. Searches are underway for the remaining six.
What action has the police taken?
Indushekhar has been arrested and a murder case registered. Police have seized the suspected weapon and vehicle used to transport the bodies.
