Bengaluru: They were friends, but used to fight frequently, says Residents

Bengaluru: Some residents of Chinnappa Garden, who have known both the accused, Wasim, and the deceased, Santosh, claim that the latter was an alcoholic. He used to pester Wasim and others to buy him liquor and cigarettes.

Annoyed by his behaviour Wasim had warned him that he will continue the friendship only if he stops asking for money to buy liquor.

A resident, who stays near the spot where the incident took place, said on condition of anonymity, “We have seen them for a long time and they used to have frequent verbal spats. On Wednesday too they argued and fought over a petty issue, which resulted in the murder.”

An investigative officer, who had questioned Wasim and Philip, mentioned that both the accused said that they were frustrated with Santosh’s constant pestering. “Wasim revealed that on Wednesday evening Santosh came near the bakery where he and his friends were having tea and asked them money for drink. They told they do not have the money for which Santosh abused them and broke into heated argument. Wasim and his friends assaulted and stabbed Santosh, and fled the spot. “Both the deceased and the accused were known to each other for a long time and were good friends. They had also fought a couple of months ago over the same issue. They had also fought over sharing money after selling Ganja,” the officer added.

The deceased, Santosh

Drug peddling issue
When we questioned his other friends and relatives, another version came up, that Santosh wanted Wasim and others to stop peddling drugs. Santosh was also found advising them not to indulge in illegal activities, which didn’t go well with Wasim, the officer said.

Ashok, friend of Santosh, who was inconsolable, said, “The only mistake of Santosh was trying to bring Wasim and others on a right track. He was constantly advising them not to sell ganja and this was a mistake. A few weeks back, Santosh’s mother warned him not to go around with Wasim, but he did not pay heed and now he is no more.”

While a few people from a political group claimed that the incident took place while Santosh was tying a bunting for the upcoming visit by prime minister. Wasim and his friends objected to it and this led to a fight and murder.

No intent to murder
Another senior police officer said that Santosh had celebrated his birthday on Tuesday with his family members.

“On Wednesday, he took six of his friends, including Wasim, for a party at a nearby bar. After they had consumed alcohol, they were returning home in an inebriated state and Santosh again advised his friends not to sell ganja. They grew furious and one of them took out a screw driver stabbed Santosh on his thigh. Looking at the injury, it shows that there was no intent to murder but it has damaged a crucial vein which resulted in blood loss and death,” the officer said.

“There are so many versions coming up and the CCB has been directed to carry out a detailed investigation to ascertain the actual reason for murder,” the officer added.