In a development in the investigation of the high-profile murder case of BJP Yuva Morcha member Praveen Nettaru, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended another suspect, identified as Atiq Ahmed. This arrest marks a significant step forward as Atiq has now been confirmed as the 21st accused in this chilling case that has sent shockwaves across political and social spheres in Karnataka.
Atiq Ahmed is alleged to have provided a haven for Mustafa Paichar, who is designated as the primary conspirator behind the gruesome murder of Praveen Nettaru. Reports indicate that Atiq’s associations with the Popular Front of India (PFI) played a pivotal role in facilitating Paichar’s actions. Following the murder, it is claimed that Ahmed assisted Paichar in fleeing the state, specifically aiding his escape to Chennai, as law enforcement agencies intensified their pursuit after the shocking incident.
The murder of Praveen Nettaru took place on July 26, 2022, in Bellare village, located in the Sulya taluk of Dakshina Kannada district. Members and sympathisers of the PFI allegedly targeted Nettaru as part of a broader agenda to instil fear among local populations and incite communal unrest. The cold-blooded nature of the killing has raised serious concerns regarding political violence and the implications of radicalisation in the region.
Recognising the gravity of the situation, the NIA took over the investigation on August 4, 2022, aiming to unravel the conspiracy and bring all those involved to justice. As part of this ongoing inquiry, NIA officials have compiled and submitted a chargesheet against 23 individuals implicated in the case, many of whom are still at large. The agency is diligently continuing to track down and apprehend the remaining six accused who have evaded capture thus far.
In a separate but connected development, Mustafa Paichar was arrested by NIA officials in May 2024. His capture provided critical insights into the operational dynamics of the conspirators involved in Nettaru’s murder. With multiple arrests coming to light, the NIA has intensified its scrutiny of potential links between the accused and radicalised organisations that may be influencing acts of violence.
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