Bengaluru/Belthangady: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Soujanya murder case has formally arrested Chinnayya alias Chinna, popularly referred to as the Mask Man, after a 19-hour-long interrogation. He was produced before the Belthangady court, where SIT sought 10 days of custody for detailed questioning.
Court Proceedings and SIT’s Argument
According to SIT, the accused repeatedly misled investigators during questioning, pointing to different locations and giving contradictory accounts. Officers stated that he directed them to multiple digging sites, claiming to have buried evidence, but nothing substantial emerged.
- SIT argued in court that further custody is essential to identify his associates, financial backers, and support network.
- The court has reserved its decision on granting judicial custody vs. police custody, with SIT pressing for 10 additional days.
The ‘Mask Man’ Narrative
Nicknamed for appearing masked during earlier court productions, Chinnayya allegedly projected himself as the central figure in what SIT suspects to be a larger conspiracy.
- Sources suggest he claimed involvement in multiple crime spots, with exaggerated statements about “dozens of graves,” which investigators now believe to be fabrications.
- SIT officials maintained that thorough verification is required to prevent loopholes in the case.
Political and Public Reactions
The arrest has intensified political debate in Karnataka, with leaders across parties claiming the case has “layers of conspiracy.”
- Home Minister said: “No one will be spared if found guilty. SIT will bring out the truth, and politics should not cloud justice.”
- Deputy CM DK Shivakumar told the Assembly: “This investigation must conclude once and for all. The people of Karnataka deserve clarity. There will be no protection for anyone—justice is our only stand.”
Meanwhile, Soujanya’s family and supporters expressed relief that the case is finally moving forward, though they remain cautious about its outcome.
Next Steps in SIT Probe
- SIT will question Chinnayya on who sheltered him, who funded him, and who else may have aided him.
- Investigators will re-examine 29 “B-Reports” already filed in related cases, with the state cabinet recently ordering a re-review.
- Advanced forensic and ground-scanning technologies are expected to be deployed in follow-up searches.
