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By Sagaya Fernando | March 3, 2026
Bengaluru, Karnataka, INDIA: In a chilling case of alleged premeditated murder, three people — including a small-time television and film actor — have been arrested for the killing of a 40-year-old man in Bengaluru’s Manjunath Nagar area, police said on Monday March 2.
The victim, identified as Mohan Rao, was found dead inside a rented house under the jurisdiction of the Bagalagunte police station. The crime is believed to have taken place on February 18 but came to light nearly 12 days later after neighbours complained of a foul smell emanating from the house.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (North West) D.L. Nagesh confirmed the arrests of Urmila alias Bindu, her alleged lover Vinay, and Vinay’s associate Dhanush Gowda.
“All three have been arrested and taken into custody. Further investigation is under way,” the officer said.
Live-in Relationship and Alleged Conspiracy
According to investigators, Mohan Rao and Bindu had rented the house two to three months ago, informing the landlord that they were a couple. Though not legally married, the two were living together. Mohan had reportedly separated from his wife, while Bindu was also estranged from her husband.
During this period, police said, Bindu developed a close relationship with Vinay, a lorry driver. The two allegedly decided to get married. Investigators believe Mohan Rao opposed the relationship and insisted that Bindu continue living with him, which led to escalating tensions.
Police suspect that Mohan’s opposition to their proposed marriage became the motive for the crime.
Murder After Alcohol Party
On the night of the incident, the accused allegedly organised a gathering at the house and made Mohan consume alcohol. Once he was heavily intoxicated, Vinay and Dhanush are suspected to have stabbed him multiple times.
Police said Bindu allegedly taped Mohan’s mouth and nose and tied his hands and legs during the assault. He is believed to have died due to suffocation combined with stab injuries.
“The crime occurred inside the same house where the body was later found. They made him drink, stabbed him with a knife and suffocated him,” DCP Nagesh said.
Dhanush Gowda, who works at a non-vegetarian hotel and was known to the accused, was allegedly called to assist in executing the plan.
Body Discovered After 12 Days
The murder went unnoticed for nearly 12 days. Neighbours eventually alerted authorities after detecting a foul smell from the locked house. Police forced entry and discovered the decomposed body.
A case of murder was registered, and a detailed probe was launched, leading to the arrest of the three accused.
Actor’s Claims Under Verification
Police said Bindu has claimed to have acted in minor roles in Kannada films such as Bhajarangi, Police Quarters, and Kalabhairava. Authorities added that her claims are being verified.
Mohan Rao was reportedly involved in pigmy collection and small business activities.
Investigators are continuing to question the accused to establish the complete sequence of events and determine individual roles in the crime.
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