Dharwad Police Uncover Murder Plot: Husband Allegedly Hired Contract Killers to Evade Rs 40 Lakh Maintenance
In a shocking revelation, Dharwad Rural police have successfully cracked a complex murder case involving a woman who was allegedly killed by contract killers hired by her own husband. The motive behind this heinous crime was to avoid paying a substantial maintenance amount of Rs 40 lakh ordered by a Lok Adalat. The incident, which initially appeared to be a tragic road accident, was meticulously investigated by the police, leading to the arrest of multiple suspects.
Initial Investigation and Discovery
On February 26, a road accident was reported near Amminabhavi on Savadatti Road, resulting in the death of 42-year-old Lalita Hattarki from Somapur. At first glance, the incident seemed like a typical vehicular mishap. However, the case took a dramatic turn when police reviewed dashcam footage from a Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus that captured the event. This crucial evidence raised suspicions that the crash was not accidental but a deliberate act.
Superintendent of Police Gunjan Arya, addressing a press conference on Monday evening, highlighted the pivotal role of this footage. "The dashcam video provided clear indications that this was a staged accident," Arya stated. In response, five special teams were immediately formed to delve deeper into the matter, unraveling a web of conspiracy and betrayal.
Arrests and Evidence Seized
The investigation led to the identification and arrest of the main accused, Udaykumar Hattarki of Narendra village, who is the victim's husband. His associates—Nagappa Madivalappa Padekar of Garag, Abhishek Varagannavar of Nichchanaki, and Nagaraj Madivalappa Uppin of Dodawad—were also apprehended and remanded to judicial custody. One accused remains absconding, with police efforts ongoing to track him down.
During the operation, law enforcement officials seized significant evidence, including a black Thar vehicle used in the crime, four mobile phones, and Rs 20,000 in cash. Despite the vehicle lacking a number plate, police utilized CCTV footage from the area to identify it and link it to the accused, showcasing their investigative prowess.
Background and Motive
The crime unfolded against a backdrop of marital discord. Lalita and Udaykumar Hattarki were married in 2000, but differences arose a few years ago, leading Lalita to live at her parental home. A divorce case was pending in court, and recently, a Lok Adalat had ordered Udaykumar to provide 1.5 acres of land to Lalita as maintenance. Unable to accept this financial obligation, Udaykumar allegedly plotted her murder, paying Rs 40 lakh to contract killers to carry out the deed.
As per the plan, on February 26, Udaykumar lured Lalita to Savadatti Road under the pretext of discussing their ongoing legal matters. With the assistance of his associates, he allegedly rammed her with the black vehicle, meticulously staging it to look like an accident. This cold-blooded act was intended to permanently eliminate the maintenance burden.
Police Commendation and Ongoing Efforts
SP Gunjan Arya praised the diligent efforts of the rural police in solving this intricate case. "The team's dedication and use of technological evidence were instrumental in uncovering the truth," Arya remarked. The investigation highlights the challenges faced in distinguishing between accidental deaths and premeditated crimes, especially in rural settings.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the lengths some individuals may go to evade financial responsibilities, resorting to extreme violence. The Dharwad police's swift action not only brought the perpetrators to justice but also provided closure to the victim's family, underscoring the importance of thorough police work in ensuring societal safety.
