Nejar quadruple murder case: Victim knew the accused for 8 months, says Udupi SP in press briefing

Udupi Superintendent of Police, Dr. Arun K on Thursday held a press conference to brief reporters on the ongoing investigation in the Nejar quadruple murder case.

The SP said that as per their investigations, the accused and the victim Aynaz had been acquainted with each other for the last eight months and Praveen had helped Aynaz during this period. However, in the last one month things turned sour between the two due to Praveen’s possessive nature and Aynaz began avoiding talking to him.

This infuriated Praveen and he pre-planned to murder her. On the fateful day, Praveen arrived at her house and attacked Aynaz with a knife and then proceeded to kill Hasina, Afnan, and Asim with the same weapon. Subsequently, Praveen used different vehicles to flee from the spot. After receiving treatment for a hand injury, he left the murder weapon at home and misled his wife by lying to her about the injury.

Further, Dr. Arun K clarified that Praveen had no prior criminal history. He had served in Pune police till 2007 and joined Air India Express in 2007 for a good salary. Investigations are underway to determine whether he had consumed intoxicants while committing the crime. A medical report is awaited and this will shed light on whether he consumed intoxicants.

The person who provided shelter to the accused in Kuduchi has been interrogated, and further information will be gathered if necessary. Praveen is being kept in a separate cell and two policemen have been deployed for security.

Stressing the sensitivity of the case, the SP said all the information cannot be divulged to the media presently.

The police are also looking into allegations that Hasina was financially duped. “We will investigate once we get a formal complaint from the family. Aynaz’s family has been cooperative with the police investigation. We will assist in the appointment of special public prosecutors for this case. The family has requested a fast-track court,” he said.

A total of 11 teams were formed for the investigation. The case got national attention and it was a challenge for the police to crack the case at the earliest. We worked as a team to nab the accused. We have 70-80 days remaining for the submission of the charge sheet. Around 50 policemen are working on gathering evidence.

The SP said that he has recommended a suitable reward for the police officers involved in the case