NIA Takes Over Probe Into Suhas Shetty Murder

NIA Takes Over Probe Into Suhas Shetty Murder

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, June 8, 2025: The Union Home Ministry has handed over the investigation into the murder of Suhas Shetty, a Hindutva activist and accused in two murder cases, to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), citing the gravity and national implications of the crime.

Shetty, 30, was hacked to death on May 1 in Bajpe town while traveling with associates. The attackers, allegedly linked to the banned Popular Front of India (PFI), targeted him in a public attack to instill fear. He was the prime accused in the 2022 murder of Mohammed Fazil in Surathkal, which itself followed the killing of BJP worker Praveen Nettaru in Bellare.

The Bajpe police have arrested 11 suspects in the case so far. The Ministry stated that the crime attracted provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and involved a larger conspiracy, necessitating an NIA probe under the NIA Act.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said the state government would consult the Advocate General before deciding on the Centre’s decision to involve the NIA.

Welcoming Union Home Ministry’s decision, Dakshina Kannada MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta said Dakshina Kannada district wants freedom from anti-national elements that are active in the district and become an active part of Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat.