Yellapur: A case initially suspected to be a fatal car accident involving a burnt vehicle and a charred body at Arbail Ghat has been confirmed as a premeditated murder, police said following a detailed investigation.

Three accused — Abdul Nayeem, Maula Saab, and Dada Peer, all residents of Old Hubballi — have been arrested in connection with the killing of Nitesh Dapale, a resident of Belagavi. The incident occurred on April 8.

According to police, the accused allegedly murdered Nitesh over personal enmity and subsequently placed the body inside a car, which was set ablaze at Arbail Ghat in an attempt to destroy evidence and mislead investigators.

The case was initially treated as an accidental vehicle fire. However, suspicion arose after the victim was identified. His father, Jagannath, raised doubts over the circumstances surrounding his son’s death and alleged foul play, prompting police to register a murder case.

Two special teams were constituted to probe the case. Using CCTV footage and other technical evidence, police traced the accused and took them into custody.

Police have also seized a car and two scooters believed to have been used in the commission of the crime.

Addressing a press conference, Uttara Kannada Superintendent of Police Deepan M.N. said the deceased was a rowdy-sheeter with 22 criminal cases registered in Belagavi and Dharwad districts. He had previously been associated with the prime accused and had reportedly worked as his driver.

Preliminary investigations suggest that financial disputes or personal differences may have led to the murder. Further investigation is underway to establish the exact motive and sequence of events.