30-year friendship turns fatal after illicit affair; wife, lover detained

 

By Sumesh Rajan | August 13, 2025

Bengaluru, Karnataka, INDIA: A 39-year-old man was hacked to death in cold blood in what police say was a deadly love triangle involving his wife and his childhood friend.

The man was allegedly hacked to death by his wife’s lover — who was also his childhood friend — in Machohalli village, northwest Bengaluru, on Monday August 11 night. Police say the murder was the result of a conspiracy to eliminate the husband and continue the illicit relationship.

The victim, Vijay Kumar, a resident of D Group Layout in Machohalli and a native of Magadi, had been married to Asha for 10 years. The couple had two children. Vijay worked as an auto driver and real estate broker.

The main accused, Dhananjaya alias Jay, had been Vijay’s friend for over three decades, with both growing up together in Magadi before moving to the Sunkadakatte area. Over time, Dhananjaya reportedly developed a romantic relationship with Asha during frequent visits to Vijay’s home.

When Vijay discovered the affair, he confronted both and even shifted with his family from Kamakshipalya to Machohalli in an attempt to save his marriage. However, the relationship allegedly continued, leading to frequent quarrels. Vijay also obtained photographs of Asha and Dhananjaya together.

Police say Asha and Dhananjaya then plotted to kill Vijay. On Monday August 11 evening, when Vijay stepped out of his home, he was followed by the assailants and attacked with lethal weapons, including a machete, about 500 metres from his residence. He died on the spot.

While some acquaintances claimed the victim had been lured to a party before the attack, police have ruled out that theory.

Superintendent of Police (Bengaluru Rural) CK Baba confirmed that Asha, Dhananjaya, and a few others have been detained for questioning. “Prima facie, the murder appears to be over an extramarital affair. Arrests will be made soon, and the investigation is ongoing,” he said.

The Madanayakanahalli Police have registered a case of murder and are continuing their probe.