Bengaluru:
A 37-year-old real estate agent and loan consultant, Loknath Singh, was found murdered in Bengaluru in what police describe as a planned crime orchestrated by his wife, Yashaswini, and mother-in-law, Hema Bai. Both women have been arrested in connection with the case.
The incident came to light on March 22 when police received a distress call around 5:30 pm. Upon reaching the location, officers discovered Loknath’s body inside a parked car in a secluded area—his throat had been slit. Initially suspected to be a homicide, further investigations exposed a more sinister plot involving family betrayal and financial disputes.
Loknath and Yashaswini had secretly married in December 2024 through a registered ceremony in Kunigal, but the marriage was kept hidden from her family due to their strong disapproval of their age difference. The truth surfaced two weeks ago, triggering conflicts between the couple and Yashaswini’s family. Allegations of Loknath’s extramarital affairs and fraudulent business dealings further escalated tensions, with discussions of divorce intensifying.
According to the police, Loknath had allegedly threatened his wife and mother-in-law, making them fearful for their safety. This ultimately led them to plan his murder. Investigators revealed that the duo first spiked Loknath’s food with sleeping pills. Later, Yashaswini lured him to Chikkabanavara under the pretense of a discussion, while her mother followed in an auto-rickshaw. In a secluded spot, they carried out the murder, slitting his throat before fleeing the scene.
The crime was uncovered after Loknath’s brother filed a police complaint, prompting an investigation. During the inquiry, authorities also discovered that Loknath was under investigation by the Central Crime Branch of Bengaluru in a fraud case.
Confirming the arrests, West Division Additional Commissioner Vishal Kumar Bikash stated, “Yashaswini, aged 21, and her mother Hema Bai, aged 37, have been arrested for the murder of real estate businessman Loknath Singh. The accused acted in response to ongoing disputes and threats from the deceased.”
Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Saidul Adavath also confirmed the case, adding, “Further investigation is underway.”
