Ajekaru murder case: Wife suspected of administering arsenic to husband over time

Team Udayavani, Oct 28, 2024, 9:12 AM IST

Ajekaru: In a shocking twist in the murder case of Balakrishna, the primary suspect, Pratima, allegedly poisoned her husband with arsenic trioxide, as revealed in an initial police investigation.

The poison was reportedly sourced by Pratima’s alleged lover, Dileep Hegde, from a lab in Udupi. Following this revelation, Ajekaru police have detained the lab owner and seized several mobile phones for further investigation.

The investigation indicated that Dileep supplied the arsenic trioxide to Pratima, who administered the poison in small doses in her husband’s daily meals. This slow poisoning reportedly weakened Balakrishna’s organs, and he was admitted to a hospital. After a brief recovery, Balakrishna was discharged on October 19 but was later suffocated to death by Pratima and Dileep that same night.

Search for poison bottle

Pratima is alleged to have given the empty poison bottle back to Dileep, who admitted to discarding it near the Kukkundoor-Hirgana road. However, a police search at the site yielded no results. The police conducted an inquiry near “Pratima’s Beauty Lounge” in Ajekaru, where Dileep had allegedly handed over the chemical bottles to Pratima. As part of the investigation, bone samples from Balakrishna’s remains have been secured to check for traces of arsenic trioxide, with consent from his father, Sanjeeva Salian.

Poisoning on festival day

Pratima allegedly poisoned her husband on the festival day of Chauthi, a time typically associated with family unity and celebrations. After Balakrishna vomited that day, she continued to add small doses of poison to his food, resulting in his deteriorating health.

Community support for Medical expenses

Balakrishna’s medical expenses were high, leading Pratima and a family member, Sandeep, to appeal for public support on social media. The response was significant, and funds were raised for Balakrishna’s treatment.

Dileep to be presented in court

Dileep Hegde, whose police custody ends on October 28, will be presented in Karkala Court. Police may request an extension of custody for further investigation, including recovering additional evidence. Pratima, currently in judicial custody, may also be questioned further with Dileep.

About arsenic trioxide

Arsenic trioxide is a potent, toxic compound frequently used in school and college labs. It is odorless and soluble in water and certain solvents. Ingesting arsenic trioxide can lead to vomiting, abdominal pain, anemia, respiratory failure, and, in severe cases, neurological damage, cardiac arrest, and even cancer.

The influence of social media reels

Post-pandemic, Pratima reportedly developed a strong interest in social media reels, urging Balakrishna to participate despite his reluctance. Her mother-in-law shared that Balakrishna often complied to avoid arguments but grew frustrated over time. Pratima, who had only studied up to SSLC, became adept at creating reels and shared over 200 on Facebook and Instagram.

This case has drawn significant public attention, not only due to the tragic nature of the events but also due to Pratima’s use of social media to portray a contrasting image.