Fifth Suspect Nabbed in Online Harassment Case Targeting Star's Wife
The Central Crime Branch (CCB) in Bengaluru made another arrest on Wednesday in a disturbing case of online harassment targeting Vijayalakshmi, the wife of renowned Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa. The latest individual taken into custody is 32-year-old S Dariyappa, a self-employed man hailing from Bagalkot in north Karnataka.
This arrest marks a significant development, as Dariyappa becomes the fifth person apprehended by the city police in connection with this incident. The authorities allege that he sent obscene messages to Vijayalakshmi through his Instagram account.
Investigation Progress and Judicial Custody
Last week, the police had already arrested four other individuals, including a techie from Davanagere. All four are currently held in judicial custody at the Bengaluru Central Prison. The investigation is being closely monitored, with Vijayalakshmi having personally met Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh last week to seek an update on the progress of her complaint.
An investigating officer involved in the case provided details on the next steps. "We will have to take a statement from Dhariyappa, who had sent the lewd comment from his Instagram ID. After the statement, he will be produced before the local court on Thursday," the officer stated.
Connection to High-Profile Murder Case
This online harassment case casts a shadow against the backdrop of an even more serious criminal proceeding involving actor Darshan Thoogudeepa. The actor, along with fellow actor Pavitra Gowda and several associates, stands as the main accused in the sensational 2024 murder of his fan, Renukaswamy. This parallel high-profile murder case continues to unfold, adding layers of public and media scrutiny to the actor's family and associated events.
The arrest of S Dariyappa underscores the police's continued efforts to address the complaint filed by Vijayalakshmi. As the legal process moves forward, the court appearance scheduled for Thursday will determine the future course of action for the newly arrested accused.
