Date:06/05/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/06/stories/2006050625990300.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

Two hacked to death in Nelamangala

Staff Reporter

One of the victims was an advocate

BANGALORE: An advocate and a gram panchayat member were hacked to death by an armed gang in Nelamangala police station limits in Bangalore Rural district on Friday.

The police gave the names of the victims as Krishnamurthy (36), member of Huskur Gram Panchayat and Devaraj (35), an advocate. Around 5.30 p.m., Krishnamurthy, Devaraj and their friend Krishna were returning to Guttepalya after participating in a local fair at the neighbouring Ramadevanahalli. As they neared Guttepalya a multi-utility vehicle dashed against their motorcycle.

Even as they fell down, around five people got down from the multi -utility vehicle and attacked them with swords and choppers.

While Krishna managed to escape, Krishnamurthy and Devaraj were killed on the spot, the police said.

According to the police, Krishnamurthy and Devaraj were prosecution witness in the murder of a political party worker Basavaiah, who was killed near Dobbspet three years ago. The hearing in the Basavaiah murder case was scheduled to take place on May 8.

Fearing that Krishnamurthy and Devaraj may make statements against the accused the two were murdered, the police suspect.

The Nelamangala police have registered a case.