Udupi: In a shocking revelation, District Superintendent of Police, Dr. K. Arun, laid bare the gruesome details of a horrifying crime, narrating how Praveen Chowgule systematically took the lives of four family members, one by one, as they attempted to intervene.

Addressing the media at the Udupi SP office, Dr. K. Arun offered a comprehensive account of the tragic massacre that unfolded in Nejar, within the Malpe police station limits. Notably, Praveen Chowgule was initially granted police custody for 14 days. However, the inquiry was swiftly concluded, leading to his early presentation in court.

According to the SP, Praveen, upon entering the house, ruthlessly targeted Aynaz first, stabbing her with a knife. Subsequently, he attacked her mother Hasina, elder sister Afnan, and 12-year-old younger brother Aseem, who rushed in upon hearing the commotion. The chilling sequence of murders unfolded with Praveen stabbing Aseem near the door.

Introduction over eight months
Dr. Arun stated that accused Praveen Chowgule and victim Aynaz had a working relationship spanning eight months and both of them have gone abroad on duty 8-10 times in the same flight and their friendship grew during these trips.

A month before the tragedy, Aynaz distanced herself from Praveen. Disturbed by this, Praveen admitted to premeditating her murder out of deep infatuation and a desire for control. He had previously assisted Aynaz in various ways, including finding her a rented house and lending her his scooter.

A household knife used
Having planned meticulously, Praveen left home for Udupi early on Nov. 12, stopping the car before getting CCTV footage at the Hejmadi toll gate, and arrived in Nejar by bus, auto-rickshaw, and bike.

Even after the murder, he returned by a different route and burnt the blood-stained cloth near Mulki. After reaching home, he sought treatment at the hospital and disposed of the items used in the crime. The SP informed that he brought back the kitchen knife used in the crime to avoid suspicion.

ಉಡುಪಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ತಾಯಿ, ಮಕ್ಕಳ ಕಗ್ಗೊಲೆ ಪ್ರಕರಣದ ಮಾಹಿತಿ ಬಿಚ್ಚಿಟ್ಟ ಎಸ್ಪಿ ಡಾ.ಅರುಣ್

Interrogation of asylum seekers
The investigation revealed no one else was involved. The accused was hiding in a relative's house in Belgaum, and the family was unaware of his actions. Further inquiries are planned for the future.

Whether Praveen consumed drugs needs confirmation through a medical examination. The nature of the relationship between Praveen and Aynaz, and whether they were in love, is yet to be confirmed. All their mobiles have been confiscated and are being checked. Technical evidence and data regarding Praveen's mobile being on during the murder will be presented in court.

We have completed all investigations, and there is no need to take the accused into custody at this time. Some necessary evidence has been collected, and more will be gathered. With 70-80 days left to submit the charge sheet, any additional evidence found will be presented in court.

Cash prize for the team
In this case, all members of our police team performed their duty with great responsibility and honesty. The superiors will announce the prize for this team soon. A recommended cash reward of Rs. 1.5 lakh is in consideration, with more than 50 people working hard on this case.

Praveen's background and employment history
In 2007, Praveen Chowgule joined the Pune City Police. During training, he secured a job with Air India Express, leaving the police force for a higher salary. He has worked at Air India Express since 2008.

His wife was aware that Praveen had friendships with various girls, including Aynaz and other colleagues. The SP clarified that the accused was not taken to Belgaum and Sangli for inquest but only to Mangalore and Udupi.

Separate investigation into finances
All mobiles have been sent to the forensic science lab to investigate Haseena's financial dealings. Investigation will be done based on the report, and action will be taken upon receiving a separate complaint from the family.

The family's cooperation has been vital in the investigation, helping trace the accused. Efforts will be made to appoint a special Public Prosecutor before the charge sheet submission, and a request will be made to the government to establish a speedy court.

The whole case was a big challenge
A couple of murders are significant, but in this case, four people were killed, posing a major challenge. The target of the accused, whether the whole family or only one individual, was initially unknown. The public's outrage and pressure to solve the case quickly were palpable. Investigating in various dimensions revealed the main target of the accused.

Investigate illegal activities
Investigations into Praveen's involvement in illegal activities at the airport yielded no information. Bank accounts were also checked, revealing property acquisition within the limits of his salary.

Investigations confirmed that Praveen has no criminal background, affirming that he killed Aynaz out of jealousy and infatuation. Whether the accused had visited Aynaz's home earlier is unknown; he located her home using an online location.

Isolation cell system in prison
Due to the seriousness of the case, Praveen Chowgule is being kept in a separate cell in jail for enhanced security. Dr. Arun highlighted the importance of maintaining law and order during such serious cases, praising the public for their cooperation. Locals refrained from celebrating Diwali due to the incident.

District Additional SP ST Siddhalingappa was also present during the press conference.