Bengaluru/Beltangady: Beltangady Court has ordered that the accused, popularly known as Mask Man, be handed over to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) for 10 days of police custody. The SIT had sought custodial interrogation to unravel deeper links and identify those who supported or sheltered him.
- SIT Custody: The court accepted SIT’s plea and granted 10 days of custody for detailed questioning.
- Focus of Interrogation: Investigators will probe who aided the accused financially, politically, or by providing shelter.
- Network Under Scrutiny: SIT sources indicate that anyone connected to or in touch with the accused will now come under the scanner.
- Possible Arrests Ahead: Officials hinted that a chain of fresh arrests may follow as the conspiracy trail widens.
Why SIT Asked for Extended Custody
The SIT argued that:
- The accused’s statements so far were incomplete and misleading.
- They require more time to confront him with evidence, documents, and electronic data.
- Custody will help identify the financial trail, supporters, and the larger network behind the plot.
Court documents reveal that technical tools such as GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) had been used earlier in the search operations, but yielded little. SIT now believes custodial interrogation will help clarify missing links.
Political & Social Angle
The case has triggered sharp political debate, with leaders across parties—including the Congress—suggesting that a larger conspiracy is at play.
Meanwhile, lakhs of devotees have also expressed anxiety, questioning the truth behind the unfolding revelations.
Next Steps
- The SIT will focus on who provided shelter, money, or logistical support to the accused.
- Officials confirmed that questioning will also cover possible burial or disposal sites, although much of the physical search has already been completed.
- The probe is expected to move towards identifying masterminds and financiers in the coming days.
