NIA Probes Financial Trail in Suhas Shetty Murder Case

NIA Probes Financial Trail in Suhas Shetty Murder Case

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, June 29, 2025: The National Investigation Agency (NIA), now handling the investigation into the May 1 murder of Hindu activist Suhas Shetty near Kinnipadavu Junction in Bajpe, is delving into the financial network behind the crime.

Having taken over the case from the Mangaluru CCB Police, the NIA has secured custody of eight key suspects until July 1 and is conducting intensive interrogations. All evidence and case files from the earlier investigation have been handed over to the agency.

The NIA’s primary focus is tracing the financial trail that facilitated the planning and execution of the murder. Sources reveal that bank account details of all 12 accused, including those accused of aiding the crime, have been collected. Preliminary investigations suggest that funds were transferred to some of the accused from local sources.

Additionally, the agency is scrutinizing bank accounts of the accused’s family members to uncover any hidden transactions. Senior NIA officials, including DIG Rahul and SP Shivakumar, have been briefed on the case, while a special team led by DSP Pavan Kumar spearheads the probe.

Initial speculation linked the ₹5 lakh allegedly provided by Adil, the brother of Fazil (murdered in Surathkal), to the funding of Suhas Shetty’s killing. However, preliminary findings suggest the financial trail in this case is separate and potentially more intricate.

Credible information has emerged indicating that foreign funds may have been funneled into the accounts of the accused. Right-wing groups and BJP leaders had earlier alleged overseas involvement in the murder.

Moreover, investigators have reportedly found connections between the accused and the banned outfit Popular Front of India (PFI). Some of the accused are suspected to have ties with former PFI members now residing abroad, who may have financially supported the crime. Interrogations have revealed critical details regarding these alleged links.

The NIA is expected to intensify its investigation into international financial linkages and potential organizational backing for the murder as part of its broader probe.