Four held on charge of killing Bhagappa Harijan in Vijayapura

In a shocking incident in Vijayapura, police have detained four individuals in connection with the murder of Bhagappa Harijan, a notorious repeat offender with a long criminal history. Bhagappa, who was previously implicated in at least ten cases—six of which were murders—met a gruesome end when he was hacked to death outside his residence on February 12. The arrested individuals are Prakash Melinakeri, Rahul Talakeri, Sudeep Kamble, and Manikanth Benakoppa, with only Rahul having a prior criminal record. The other three are believed to be first-time offenders.

The motive behind Bhagappa's murder appears to stem from a personal vendetta. Prakash Melinakeri was reportedly upset with Bhagappa, believing he had a role in the death of Prakash’s brother, Ravi Melinakeri, linked to a property dispute that occurred a few years ago. This suggests deep-rooted issues within the community that led to such a violent confrontation.

Bhagappa's life had already been on the line before; he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt in 2023 when gunmen fired at him in the Vijayapura court complex. The swift apprehension of the accused has drawn praise from local law enforcement, with Superintendent of Police Laxman Nimbargi acknowledging the efforts of the investigative team led by Additional SP Ramanagouda Hatti.

‘Unforgivable’: Elizabeth Struhs’ sister confronts Queensland sect members convicted of killing eight-year-old

The tragic case of Elizabeth Struhs, an eight-year-old girl who lost her life due to the actions of her religious sect, was brought to the forefront in the Brisbane Supreme Court. Her eldest sister, Jayde Struhs, who once belonged to the controversial religious group known as 'the Saints', recounted the harrowing details as she claimed that the sect members, including her own parents, killed Elizabeth to 'play God'. Jayde, who fled the group in 2014 after they could not accept her sexuality, expressed deep anger and sorrow during her emotional testimony.

In a powerful victim impact statement, Jayde revealed how the sect's manipulative control over her family led to Elizabeth's tragic demise. The adults in the sect, including parent Jason and Kerrie Struhs, believed that by withholding insulin from their diabetic daughter, God would intervene to heal her or even raise her from the dead. Jayde confronted the members in court, stating, “You took Elizabeth’s life. You had no right, and on judgment day, God will see you for what you truly are.”

The court found 14 members of the Saints guilty of manslaughter last month after a lengthy trial. They had refused legal representation and entered a not guilty plea on their behalf. During the proceedings, Justice Martin Burns commented on the difficulties of deterring individuals who so fervently believe they are righteous. Prosecutors are now pushing for substantial prison sentences for the primary offenders, including Elizabeth’s parents, emphasizing the gravity of the crime committed against an innocent child.

In the wake of the court hearings, an additional victim impact statement from Elizabeth's aunt and uncle echoed Jayde's sentiments of loss, despair, and a lack of forgiveness towards those responsible. They questioned how any parent could prioritize their beliefs over their child's wellbeing, making it clear that they do not wish the sect members peace nor understanding. They too believe it's unimaginable for the sect members to hold peace in their hearts knowing that they took a child's life.

Gang involved in murder and robbery held

Members of a notorious gang involved in murder and robbery have been apprehended by the Narayanguda police along with the East Zone Task Force. This operation led to the recovery of stolen items valued at an astonishing ₹3 crore. Among the retrieved assets were 710 carats of diamond jewelry, 1.42 kg of gold jewelry, cash amounting to ₹19,63,780, foreign currency from 24 different countries, and 215 grams of silver.

The main suspect, identified as Molhu Mukhiya, also known as Manoj Mukhiya, was specifically wanted in connection with a murder-for-profit case from January 2024. According to Commissioner of Hyderabad Police, CV Anand, Mukhiya and his accomplices, Mahesh and Rahul, were linked to the brutal murder of an elderly woman, during which they stole property worth ₹1 crore. Unfortunately, those stolen valuables from that particular case are still missing.

On February 10, the same gang executed another burglary, targeting a residence in Narayanguda where they made off with diamond and gold jewelry, silver, as well as significant sums of Indian and foreign currency, totaling more than ₹2 crore. The offenders were recognized as Molhu Mukhiya, 35; Susheel Mukhiya, 29, a cook originally from Bihar; and Basanthi Arhi, a 40-year-old domestic worker from West Bengal.

Their method of operation involved infiltrating wealthy households, particularly those belonging to the Marwadi and Jain communities by securing jobs as domestic help. Once they earned the trust of the homeowners, they meticulously planned their burglaries and, if confronted, had resorted to murder. The stolen items were then transported back to their native places in Bihar for sale.

According to the Commissioner, Molhu Mukhiya has a history of significant property crimes in Delhi and several non-bailable warrants against him. The breakthrough in the Narayanguda case came when a complaint was filed by Abhay Kedia, whose family returned from Dubai only to discover they had been victims of a sizable burglary during their absence. Susheel Mukhiya, who had been working as a cook in the Kedia residence, quickly became the prime suspect. Following the police directive, special teams were created to investigate, leading to the suspects' capture at Nampally Railway Station while they were attempting to escape to Delhi by train.

Murder accused arrested in Kasaragod

On Wednesday night, February 12, the Manjeswaram police apprehended a 24-year-old man named Savad, who is accused of murdering a construction foreman named Suresh, aged 45. This tragic incident took place near the fish market at Uppala on Tuesday, where Suresh, originally from Kollam, had been living in Annur, Payyanur for the last 15 years.

Reports indicate that the altercation leading to the stabbing stemmed from a confrontation between Savad and Suresh while Savad was under the influence of alcohol. This argument escalated quickly, resulting in the fatal attack. What’s particularly concerning is that Savad has a history of criminal behavior, with several cases against him, including theft of an ambulance, and had previously served time in jail before being released on bail.

Police shoot at, injure accused as he attacks them in Vijayapura

In a dramatic turn of events in Vijayapura district, law enforcement took decisive action against a man suspected of gun running. Superintendent of Police Laxman Nimbargi, alongside his team, inspected the scene on Athani Road where the confrontation took place. The police had been alerted to the presence of Sagar, also known as Suresh Rathod, who was wanted for supplying illegal firearms to a murder suspect.

Rathod was accused of procuring a country-made pistol from Madhya Pradesh and subsequently going into hiding for two weeks. Following a tip-off, officers set up an ambush near Toravi Tanda. As he exited a lorry, Rathod attempted to evade arrest, aggressively stabbing two officers in the process. In response, law enforcement officers shot at his legs, successfully apprehending him.

The situation escalated further as police arrested five additional suspects—Ramesh Gemu Lamani, Subhas Dharmu Chavan, Vijaya Gangaram Rathod, Ramu Baddu Rathod, and Lakshman Rathod—who are all implicated in a conspiracy to murder Satish Rathod. The motive behind the plot stems from Ramesh Lamani’s belief that Satish was responsible for his daughter's tragic suicide. Previously, Ramesh had refused Satish's proposal for marriage to his daughter, which led to her untimely death.

As the investigation continues, it has been reported that both Suresh and injured officers are currently hospitalized. Superintendent Laxman Nimbargi, along with Additional Superintendent Ramanagouda Hatti, visited the injured at the hospital, showing the department's commitment to their personnel's welfare.

Skelton found near railway track in Kasaragod, investigation on

In a shocking discovery on Wednesday evening, February 12, railway workers stumbled upon a human skeleton near the Shiriya railway track. This find prompted the Kumbala police to launch an immediate investigation into the matter.

Kumbala inspector K.P. Vinod Kumar indicated that the skeleton, estimated to be over a year old, was unearthed amidst the shrubs during a routine inspection of the railway tracks. The police suspect foul play, as they believe the individual might have been struck by a train.

To further investigate the case, the skeleton has been sent to the Government Medical College Hospital in Kannur for a forensic examination. Authorities are focusing their efforts to establish the identity of the victim and the circumstances leading to this grim discovery.

Woman found murdered in Hassan

In a tragic incident, a woman's lifeless body was discovered at a railway construction site near the railway station in Hassan on Thursday morning. The victim is estimated to be between 35 and 40 years old, and her identity remains unknown at this time.

The gruesome discovery was made by railway workers who alerted the police promptly. The Arasikere Station railway police were quick to respond to the scene. Upon investigation, authorities noticed severe injuries to the victim's face, which had been brutally smashed with a stone, complicating the efforts to establish her identity.

The police are currently treating this case as a potential homicide, with suspicions of possible rape. Superintendent of Police, Soumyalatha S.K., shared with The Hindu that a thorough investigation is underway. She emphasized, "The cause of death will be determined after a post-mortem examination, and we will confirm any indications of rape through further analysis.

Uncle the sole accused in Balaramapuram child death case: police

The tragic case of a two-year-old girl found murdered has taken a disturbing turn, as the Balaramapuram police have identified the child’s uncle as the sole suspect in this perplexing case. After two weeks of intensive investigation, authorities concluded that there is no evidence implicating the child's mother in the crime.

The accused, who was held in police custody until Wednesday, reportedly confessed to an incestuous relationship with his sister, the victim's mother. The situation escalated when a few hours before the murder on January 30, he messaged her on WhatsApp, requesting her presence in his room. However, upon hearing her child cry, she left, which allegedly incited anger in the accused. It is said that he took advantage of the moment she stepped away to commit the horrific act.

In a shocking turn of events, the accused reportedly threw the child into a well in Kottukalkonam after the murder. Initially reported as missing, the little girl's body was later discovered in the well. Though there were initial concerns regarding the mental health of the suspect, experts from Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College Hospital have ruled out any mental illness following an assessment.

Amidst this unsettling situation, the police have also registered a case against one of their own officers. The mother of the deceased child accused this police official of defrauding her of nearly ₹35 lakh. This allegation is still under investigation, and earlier, the mother had even blamed an astrologer for the incident.

Two held for pushing youth to death from moving train

On Thursday, the Railway police apprehended two laborers involved in a tragic incident that unfolded on Tuesday, where a 28-year-old passenger was allegedly pushed from a moving train. The accused, identified as Devappa, 45, a gardener, and Peerappa, 31, a wall painter, both hailing from Kalaburagi, sparked a confrontation with the victim, Kumar M.G., a resident of Channarayapattana, over seating space on the Yesvantpur-Bidar train. This dispute escalated, resulting in a shocking act of violence wherein Kumar was forcibly shoved off the train, leading to his death on the tracks.

The Bengaluru Cantonment railway police promptly registered a case and carried out a thorough investigation, eventually tracking down the suspects. They now face serious charges, including murder.

In a separate incident that occurred on the same evening, the HSR Layout police arrested two more laborers, Prakash and Kumaresha from Ramanagara, following their alleged involvement in the brutal murder of Noorulla, a puncture shop owner. The tragic event took place late Tuesday night in Mangammanapalya, where Noorulla confronted the duo for their suspicious behavior while they were attempting to purchase a generator. Following a heated argument, Prakash and Kumaresha attacked Noorulla with an iron rod, leading to a fatal head injury. Noorulla's friend, Manikanta, who attempted to intervene, also suffered severe injuries in the attack.

Both victims were rushed to a nearby hospital, but unfortunately, Noorulla did not survive. The HSR Layout police have also charged Prakash and Kumaresha with murder and attempted murder, reflecting the serious nature of their actions.

€5m worth of cocaine seized in Kildare

In a significant operation, Garda Síochána has made a substantial cocaine seizure in the Allenwood area of Kildare, uncovering approximately 72 kilograms of the drug. This sizable haul is valued at around €5 million (£4 million). The enforcement action took place Wednesday when the Irish police stopped and searched a vehicle along with a residential property.

During the operation, two men, aged in their 50s and 60s, were arrested. They are believed to be linked to activities that facilitate and enhance drug distribution for an organised crime group. Following their arrest, the men have been charged and are scheduled to appear before Naas District Court on Thursday.

Assistant Commissioner Angela Willis of the Organised and Serious Crime unit stated, "This is another significant seizure of cocaine destined for the Irish market." She emphasized the commitment of An Garda Síochána and their law enforcement partners in targeting individuals involved in drug-related organized crime, highlighting the detrimental effects such activities have on communities through harm, intimidation, and violence.

Man murdered in Medchal, wife and paramour arrested

In a shocking turn of events, a woman has been apprehended by the Medchal police for allegedly conspiring with her lover to murder her husband. The accused individuals, identified as 28-year-old Nunavath Lalitha and 32-year-old Rallapeta Narasimha, both hail from Kindi Basti in Medchal. This disturbing case unraveled after the body of 26-year-old Nunavath Ramesh was discovered in an open yard adjacent to a water plant in Kindi Basti on the morning of February 10.

The alarm was raised by Ramesh's father, Nunavath Pool Singh, who, after noticing the grim circumstances surrounding his son’s death, lodged a complaint. He suspected his daughter-in-law’s involvement due to ongoing marital disputes, especially troubling given that the couple had four children.

Investigations revealed that Ramesh's wife, Lalitha, had formed a relationship with Narasimha, who had been widowed three years prior. As the situation worsened, Ramesh's suspicions about his wife's fidelity led him to allegedly subject her to physical abuse. Faced with the inability to live freely with Narasimha, Lalitha decided to take drastic measures and plotted Ramesh's demise.

On the evening of February 9, as Ramesh slept off a night of drinking, Lalitha contacted Narasimha to set their sinister plan into motion. Rallapeta Narasimha arrived at around 11 p.m., and together, they executed the unthinkable by strangling Ramesh before disposing of his body in an empty plot.

The following day, aimed at misleading authorities, Lalitha called her son, Rajender, claiming she found Ramesh’s lifeless body. However, with the establishment of special investigative teams and analysis of CCTV footage from the surrounding area, authorities quickly began to piece together their fraudulent story. Additional evidence was gathered through the seizure of their mobile phones, leading to their eventual capture.

3 students held for conning BSF officer

Gwalior Cyber Police have successfully apprehended three students residing in a Noida hostel, linked to a notorious syndicate that managed to deceive a BSF officer out of more than Rs 71 lakh over a span of one month. The suspects have been identified as Aftab Ahmed Khan, a BTech student from Jharkhand; Akhil Singh Bais, a BBA student from Delhi; and a class 12 student from Kota, Rajasthan.

The scam unfolded when the racketeers posed as officers from the Mumbai Crime Branch, threatening the BSF inspector with the arrest of his wife and son. This intimidation forced the officer, on the brink of retirement and stationed at the BSF Academy in Tekanpur, Gwalior, to make 34 distressing transactions. The fraudsters misled him into believing that his Aadhaar card had been implicated in a money laundering scheme, pushing him into a corner where he felt compelled to sell his home, mortgage his land, and borrow money from acquaintances in order to safeguard his family.

According to the Gwalior cyber police, these individuals have been engaging in cyber fraud for approximately two years. They discovered that the money scammed from the officer was routed through various bank accounts located in Karnataka, Aurangabad, and Gurgaon. The cybercriminals would persuade students to open bank accounts which were subsequently transferred to an affiliated Chinese gang. So far, around 20 such accounts have been traced. Following the fraud, the suspects would extract a 6% commission from the illicit funds and convert the rest into USDT before sending it to the Chinese crime syndicate.

Sicily's gangsters forced to modernise but complain they can't get the staff

On Tuesday, Sicily's anti-mafia police launched a significant operation aimed at preventing the infamous Sicilian mob from regrouping to form a new governing structure. This intervention has exposed a reality that the Mafia, while yearning for its grand criminal past, is evolving to adapt to modern challenges.

As noted by Giancarlo Romano, a previously active mobster, the quality of crime operatives has diminished. He lamented, prior to his untimely assassination a year ago, that today's mobsters are not what they once were. On the other hand, the Mafia still commands a notable presence, as confirmed by anti-mafia prosecutor Maurizio de Lucia who stated: "Cosa Nostra is alive and present." More alarmingly, the recent investigation unearthed that contemporary gang leaders are employing high-tech methods for communication, including encrypted mobile phones and a myriad of micro-SIM cards smuggled into prisons, helping them evade surveillance as they shifted their operations toward drug trafficking, money-laundering, and online gambling.

In a sweeping crackdown, authorities issued 181 arrest warrants across four districts of Palermo, including 33 targets who were already incarcerated. National anti-mafia prosecutor Giovanni Melillo highlighted the alarming reality of the high-security prison system being vulnerable to mafia influence. It was discovered during the investigation that one inmate was able to monitor a violent attack he ordered in real-time via video-link.

Interestingly, confidence in their encrypted communication system fluctuated, as one mobster was overheard expressing frustrations about connectivity issues during a discussion that inadvertently disclosed names of several Mafia affiliates. Following these conversations, Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni commended the Carabinieri's diligent efforts, assuring the public that the battle against the Mafia is ongoing.

The recent arrests drew attention to a younger demographic within the Mafia, with half of those detained being in their 20s and 30s. A leading figure, Giancarlo Romano, commented on the weak caliber of new recruits, contrasting contemporary small-time narcotics sales against the majesty of previous operations involving large drug shipments. His murder, likely linked to online gambling extortion, led to further law enforcement actions against his faction.

Despite a concerted effort to diminish its power over the past three decades, Cosa Nostra remains entrenched in a blend of old traditions and modern criminality. As a mafioso poignantly remarked, "Cosa Nostra is like marriage. You are married to this wife and you stay with her all your life," suggesting that allegiance to the Mafia is inescapable.

Bhagappa Harijan, facing several criminal cases, murdered in Vijayapura

Tragic Murder of Bhagappa Harijan in Vijayapura

In a shocking incident that took place on Tuesday night in Vijayapura, Bhagappa Harijan, a 53-year-old repeat offender, was brutally hacked to death. His lifeless body was found lying in front of his home located in Madina Nagar, near the Radio Station. Harijan, who had a notorious history, was wanted in numerous criminal cases, including both murder and attempted murder.

The police suspect that this gruesome act may have stemmed from longstanding rivalries among criminal gangs. Bhagappa had notable connections, particularly with Chandappa Harijan, a former criminal kingpin who had also lost his life to gang violence. It appears that old feuds may have caught up with him.

According to reports, Gangubai, Bhagappa's daughter, has filed an official complaint at the Gandhi Chowk Police Station. She alleged that her father was assaulted by a known criminal named Pintu, along with several accomplices who quickly fled the scene in an autorickshaw. Gangubai revealed that her father was attacked while he was out for a walk post-dinner, a seemingly ordinary routine that turned fatal.

A cook at Harijan's residence witnessed the horrific crime unfolding and promptly alerted Gangubai. Local law enforcement, including Superintendent of Police Laxman Nimbargi and other top officials, have since visited the crime scene. Nimbargi disclosed that Bhagappa faced at least ten serious charges, including involvement in multiple murders, particularly the assassination of Basappa Harijan, a brother of the late Chandappa Harijan.

In a separate incident earlier in 2023, Bhagappa Harijan survived an assassination attempt when gang members shot at him in court related to a previous case, leading to surgical intervention to remove a bullet from his body. A case in connection with this murder has now been registered, and a specialized team led by Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime) Ramanagouda Hatti is actively working to apprehend the culprits.

Woman held on charge of drug peddling

In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, the Chintamani police apprehended a 52-year-old woman named Shabana on Tuesday. During the raid conducted at her residence, authorities recovered a staggering 5.7 kilograms of marijuana, estimated to be worth ₹1.5 lakh.

Shabana, who is employed as a construction labourer, was taken into custody following specific intelligence inputs that prompted the police to launch a search of her home. Officials revealed that she had been living there with her husband, Wazir Khan, and their children. However, it appears that her primary source of income was illicit drug peddling rather than her daily wage job.

Reports indicate that Shabana has been allegedly involved in drug trafficking since 2019 and has a troubling record with seven cases already filed against her under the NDPS Act. She reportedly procured her supply of drugs from contacts in Tamil Nadu, distributing them to her clientele in the locality, as confirmed by a police officer involved in the case.

Eight persons arrested in murder case in Nellore district

Nawabpet police have successfully cracked a murder mystery in just four days, leading to the arrest of eight individuals involved in the heinous crime. During this swift investigation, authorities seized swords and three motorcycles, which were allegedly used in the murder of a 25-year-old man, identified as Koduru Kalyan.

The incident unfolded during the Penna River Festival on January 16, 2025, when a confrontation arose between Kalyan and the main accused, Doniparthi Ajay Kumar, while they were engaged in kite flying. The longstanding grudge from this altercation ignited further violence, culminating in the brutal murder of Kalyan. According to Nellore Town DSP P. Sindhu Priya, Ajay and his accomplices, fueled by their animosity, targeted Kalyan on the night of February 8, attacking him with swords at approximately 9:30 p.m.

In response to this grave incident, a case has been registered under Section 103 (1) read with 3 (5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhitha (BNS), signifying a serious charge related to the violent crime. The DSP commended the efforts of Nawabpet CI Shaik Anwar Basha, SI Shaik Rehman, and SI K. Shivaiah for their commendable work in swiftly solving this case.

Walayar parents to be summoned to CBI court shortly

The parents of the deceased Walayar girls, who are currently under investigation for allegedly abetting the rape of their minor daughters, are expected to be summoned to the CBI court in Kochi soon. The mother and father, who are considered the second and third accused in this distressing case, will likely receive formal summons for their court appearance. Upon appearing in court, they will have the legal right to apply for bail. Generally, such applications for bail can be granted if the investigation agency has concluded its probe and filed a charge sheet.

However, it’s ultimately up to the judge to decide whether to grant bail. The judge will evaluate various aspects of the case, including the severity of the crime and the risk of the accused fleeing, tampering with evidence, or influencing witnesses. Legal sources indicate that bail is often denied to ensure the investigation can proceed smoothly, allowing for custodial interrogation, securing the presence of the accused for further inquiry, and collecting essential evidence.

In this particular case, the CBI has already interrogated the accused, spoken to witnesses, and gathered necessary evidence. Notably, the first accused, V. Madhu, has already been granted bail and appears in court as scheduled. These details may influence how the judge views the upcoming bail applications. While the prosecution is likely to contest the bail request by presenting potential risks of absconding, evidence tampering, and witness intimidation, the accused may also submit a discharge petition to argue that there isn't enough evidence to proceed against them.

Once the court decides on the discharge petition, it is expected to schedule the trial. The court will formally read out the charges to the accused, with the proceedings being held in-camera due to the sensitive nature of the crimes involved, specifically relating to sexual assault and rape of minors, which fall under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act and the Indian Penal Code. In its recently filed charge sheet, the CBI has alleged that the parents played a role in enabling Madhu's actions, even claiming that they witnessed assaults on their elder daughter but failed to report them to the authorities until after her tragic death.

Gang violence sparked by ‘love triangle’ led to Cassius Turvey killing, court told

The ongoing murder trial surrounding the tragic death of Cassius Turvey, a 15-year-old Noongar Yamatji boy from Perth, has taken a crucial turn as Aleesha Gilmore, the central figure in a complex "love triangle," testifies in court. Cassius succumbed to his injuries in the hospital ten days after a brutal attack on October 13, 2022, when he was allegedly targeted by a group of assailants armed with metal poles. The trial, now unfolding in the Supreme Court of Western Australia, has brought to light a series of violent events leading up to this unfortunate incident.

The charged individuals, including Jack Brearley (23), Brodie Palmer (29), Mitchell Forth (26), and Aleesha Gilmore (23), are accused of murdering Cassius. Prosecutors have described his death as the climax of a convoluted series of events, which they state had "absolutely nothing to do with him." It all began on October 9, when the accused reportedly abducted two teenagers, leading to a brutal confrontation that included punches, kicks, and even a stabbing. This incident was allegedly rooted in a tumultuous "love triangle" involving Aleesha’s younger brother, Cody, and his ex-girlfriend.

During her testimony, the now 16-year-old Gilmore recounted her fears of an impending attack when she spotted her brother's former boyfriend with a group of boys. After Cody disappeared only to reappear in a car with Gilmore and another male friend, the upheaval escalated quickly. Witnesses described Brearley as aggressive, demanding to know the whereabouts of certain boys, and threatening violence towards anyone who might be withholding information.

On a subsequent occasion, tensions boiled over again when a group of teenagers retaliated against the violent attackers by vandalizing Brearley’s car. This prompted Brearley, along with his associates, to allegedly arm themselves and venture out searching for revenge. Tragically, they encountered Cassius and other frightened school children in a nearby area. Reports indicate that Cassius, who was trying to escape, was caught and struck at least twice in the head with a metal pole before ultimately succumbing to his injuries.

The grim tale continues to unfold as the trial proceeds. Court hearings are set to reveal more details about this violent series of events, leaving the community deeply concerned about the alarming nature of youth violence and the underlying factors that fuel such tragic incidents.

52-year-old repeat offender gets 2nd life term for raping minor while on furlough

In a shocking case from Ahmedabad, a special CBI court has sentenced 52-year-old teacher Dhaval Trivedi to life imprisonment for raping a student and causing her to become pregnant. This disturbing incident unfolded after Trivedi eloped with the victim under the false promise of marriage. Remarkably, this is not the first instance of such egregious behavior for Trivedi, who is classified as a repeat offender.

Previously, Trivedi was serving a life sentence for the abduction and rape of two minors in 2014, but he was granted furlough. Instead of returning to prison, he assumed a new identity, 'Dharmendra Dave,' and started teaching English in Chotila. In August 2018, he coerced one of his students into traveling with him across multiple locations in India and Nepal, during which he misrepresented his identity and took advantage of her trust.

The predator exploited his vulnerable student by promising marriage and then sexually assaulted her, resulting in her pregnancy. It wasn't until she returned home in June 2020 that she reported him to the CBI, which had been investigating her disappearance. Following his arrest in Himachal Pradesh, Trivedi faced the court on multiple serious charges such as rape, abduction, cheating, and impersonation.

While the prosecution sought the death penalty for such a grave crime, the court decided on life imprisonment without the possibility of remission, ensuring that Trivedi would spend the rest of his life behind bars. Additionally, he was fined Rs 7 lakh, and the court has recorded this decision to prevent him from being granted furlough in the future.

Cops nab 4 for digital arrest victim’s suicide

Tragic Case of Digital Exploitation Leads to Suicide in Pratapgarh

In a distressing incident that highlights the dark side of digital crime, police in Pratapgarh have arrested four individuals, including a minor, in connection with the suicide of 52-year-old Gyandas Gautam. This case underscores the severe consequences of financial exploitation and psychological harassment in the digital age. Those arrested face serious charges, including abetment to suicide, impersonation, and criminal conspiracy, while four other suspects remain at large.

Gyandas Gautam, a dedicated safai karamchari (sanitation worker) in the Panchayat Raj department, tragically took his own life by hanging himself. His brother, Premdas, filed an FIR, shedding light on the unfortunate events that unfolded. According to the report, Gyandas was ensnared by cybercriminals who exploited digital communication to extort money from him. These malicious actors, posing as police officials from Lucknow, threatened him with false legal accusations, compelling him to make numerous payments.

The pressure was overwhelming; as Gyandas struggled to keep up with the financial demands, he resorted to pawning family jewelry, and even borrowing money. In total, he handed over ₹1 lakh along with valuables, burdening himself with insurmountable debts. The mounting psychological and financial strain ultimately drove him to desperation, culminating in his tragic decision on January 30.

Following an investigation led by sub-inspector Shailesh Yadav and his team on February 7, police utilized surveillance data to pinpoint one of the suspects, Rohit Prajapati. A targeted operation was executed in Kanpur Nagar, resulting in the recovery of significant evidence linking the gang to their fraudulent schemes. The police confiscated fake identification cards and phones used in their operations, along with bank records displaying the illicit transactions. This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the increasing prevalence of cybercrime and the dire need for heightened awareness and protective measures against such threats.