Belagavi Cops Uncover Plot To Poison Ex-Soldier's Saline For Rs 2 Crore Insurance
The Belagavi police have uncovered an alleged murder conspiracy where a 46-year-old ex-serviceman, Sandeep Manjaragi, was poisoned to death in a hospital after surviving a minor motorcycle accident. His wife, Suma, and her lover, Pundalik Dombar, allegedly plotted the murder to claim Rs 2 crore in insurance money and continue their relationship.
The victim, Sandeep, was a resident of Ghodageri village in Hukkeri taluk. On March 13, he sustained minor injuries in a motorcycle crash near Ghataprabha town in Gokak taluk. He was subsequently admitted to a local hospital, where medical reports indicated he was recovering steadily.
Despite only suffering minor injuries, the ex-soldier died unexpectedly on March 15. The police stated that the accused individuals initially attempted to portray his death as a direct consequence of the road accident.
However, the sequence of events raised suspicions, prompting a deeper investigation by the Belagavi police. Investigators achieved a breakthrough after uncovering evidence of an extramarital relationship between Suma, 40, and Dombar, 26.
Dombar had previously been a partner in Sandeep's hotel business. After the business failed, Dombar remained with the family, working as a driver. According to the police, Suma and Dombar feared that Sandeep's recovery from the accident would jeopardize their ongoing relationship.
During sustained interrogation, the duo reportedly confessed to the crime. They revealed a plan to eliminate Sandeep so they could live together unhindered and claim his Rs 2 crore insurance payout.
The police also suspect the involvement of hospital laboratory staff. These staff members allegedly assisted the primary accused by helping to administer pesticide through Sandeep's saline bottle during his hospital stay, which ultimately caused his death.
Following permission from the court, the police exhumed Sandeep’s body on Thursday for a comprehensive forensic examination. While the suspects have confessed to their involvement in the conspiracy, they have not yet been formally arrested.
