Ajekar murder case: Accused Dileep bought poison months in advance, Police investigation reveals

Team Udayavani, Oct 29, 2024, 10:59 AM IST

Police have uncovered that Dileep Hegde, the accused in the murder of Ajekaru Deppute Balakrishna Poojary, purchased the toxic substance arsenic trioxide as early as June from Raman’s Lab in the forests near Udupi, according to the investigation.

Reports suggest that Dileep, who identified himself as a medical student, persuaded the lab owners to sell him the arsenic trioxide under the pretense of using it for his laboratory work. This points to a plot formed as early as five months before the murder, authorities revealed.

Police have interrogated the owners of Raman’s Lab, who provided statements and may be called in for further questioning if needed, said Superintendent of Police Dr. K. Arun.

Dileep Hegde, who spent much of his life in Mumbai, reportedly kept a low social profile. A B.Com graduate, he returned to his village in Karkala a few years ago when his family started a new business. With limited local connections, questions arise about how he turned into a suspected killer.

Authorities suspect Dileep conducted extensive research on arsenic trioxide through Google searches, social media, films, and possibly friends, to learn how to use the poison effectively. It is believed that he delved into Google’s Q&A sections on the effects of arsenic trioxide on the human body, including symptoms and the time it takes for the poison to be fatal.

Dileep Hegde, who was in police custody, was presented before Karkala’s Senior Civil Judge on Monday and has been remanded to judicial custody until November 7. The main suspect, Prathima, has also been placed in judicial custody until November 7. The investigation is led by Circle Inspector Manjappa D.R., who escorted the accused to court.