Bengaluru: Police have arrested five accused in connection with the murder of a 24-year-old youth in the Rajagopalnagar police station limits, officials said. The accused have been identified as Darshan (28), Surendra (27), Mahendra (29), Vijay (26), and another Darshan (26), all residents of Nandini Layout and Laggere. A search is underway for four more suspects involved in the case.

According to police, the incident took place on the night of April 21 near Vignana Public School. The victim, Mallikarjun Rao (24), was allegedly attacked and fatally stabbed by the accused during a violent altercation.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the dispute was linked to the theft of pigeons belonging to the victim’s friend, Prashanth. A few days before the incident, the accused had allegedly stolen the pigeons. On April 21, Mallikarjun and Prashanth went to question them regarding the theft.

During the confrontation, a fight broke out, and the accused allegedly stabbed Mallikarjun in the abdomen with a dagger, causing severe injuries. He later succumbed to his injuries.

Police have registered a case at Rajagopalnagar police station and initiated further investigation. Deputy Commissioner of Police (North-West Division) Nagesh stated that five accused have been arrested and efforts are ongoing to trace the remaining suspects. The exact motive behind the murder will be confirmed after detailed investigation, he added.