Renukaswamy murder case: Kannada actor Darshan’s police custody extended by 2 days

The Bengaluru court on Thursday extended by two days the police custody of Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa in Renukaswamy murder case.

Thirteen other accused, including the actor's friend Pavithra Gowda, were remanded to 14 days’ judicial custody.

A total 17 people, including Darshan and his friend Pavithra Gowda, are accused in the murder case.

Renukaswamy, a fan of the actor, had sent obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda. Following which, Renukaswamy was allegedly murdered.

His body was found near a storm-water drain next to an apartment in Sumanahalli here on June 9.

"From the spot of the crime, things such as lathi and wooden logs used for the alleged assault have been recovered along with water bottle, blood stains and material evidence, and DVR containing the CCTV footage," PTI quoted official as saying.

The added that blood stains were also found on the vehicle allegedly used for disposing of the body.

According to the autopsy report, Renukaswamy's death was caused due to shock and haemorrhage as a result of multiple blunt injuries he sustained.

"Viscera samples have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory for further analysis," official said.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday said he was not under pressure from any minister or MLA to shield leading Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa in a murder case.

The CM also said that he will never entertain such requests. “There is a rumour doing rounds that there was pressure on me, which is not true. There is no pressure. Neither from a minister nor any MLA (to favour Darshan). These are all far from the truth,” Siddaramaiah told reporters.

He said, “Even if someone puts pressure on me, I will not entertain their requests. We have given free hand to the police and I have told them to take action as per law.”