BENGALURU: A 21-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly murdering his elderly neighbour, stealing her jewellery and dumping her body in a suitcase in a lake to repay debts allegedly incurred through online gaming.
The accused, identified as Gagan R, a resident of Challaghatta village, was arrested on Wednesday after police linked him to the killing of Jayamma, 61, whose body was recovered from Ramohalli Thimmappana Lake in southwest Bengaluru.
According to police, Jayamma was a homemaker who lived with her son, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren in the same locality. She was well acquainted with Gagan’s family and frequently visited their home to meet his mother. The families reportedly shared a cordial relationship, often exchanging small household items such as vegetables and groceries.
Investigators said Gagan had previously worked at a fuel station but had lost his job. Police allege that he accumulated substantial debts through online gaming and planned to rob Jayamma of her jewellery to repay the money.
On July 15, Jayamma visited Gagan’s house while he was alone. During the visit, he allegedly strangled her before stealing her gold jewellery, including her mangalsutra, bangles, earrings and a ring.
Police said the accused then placed the body inside a red trolley suitcase and transported it on his motorcycle in broad daylight. He allegedly disposed of the suitcase in Ramohalli Thimmappana Lake before returning home, reportedly before his family members arrived.
When Jayamma failed to return home, her family searched for her among relatives and acquaintances. After finding no trace of her, her son filed a missing person’s complaint with the Kumbalagodu Police on July 16.
The case took a turn on July 21, when local authorities were alerted after a suitcase containing a partially visible body was found floating in the lake. A murder investigation was subsequently launched.
Police said technical evidence led investigators to Gagan, who was later arrested.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (South-West) Anitha B. Haddannavar described the case as a “murder-for-gain” and said efforts were underway to recover the stolen jewellery allegedly taken from the victim.
