Five held for BRS leader’s murder, police say revenge was motive

Hyderabad: Police on Monday arrested five persons in connection with the murder of BRS leader C Madhu in Suryapet district, saying the killing was allegedly a revenge plot linked to a murder case dating back nearly two decades.

Addressing a press conference, investigators identified the arrested accused as M Jeevan, C Saidulu, M Prasad, M Anand and K Bharat Chand. Police said Jeevan, the prime accused, allegedly confessed that he had planned Madhu’s murder to avenge the killing of his father Ravinder in 2007, in which Madhu was allegedly involved.

According to investigators, Jeevan gradually built contacts with Madhu’s relatives, Saidulu and Prasad, and frequently consumed liquor with them to gain their trust. During one such meeting, he allegedly disclosed his intention to kill Madhu and sought their cooperation in return for money.

Police said Jeevan later drew other accused into the conspiracy. Saidulu was allegedly provided a rented house, the rent for which was paid by Jeevan.

On May 22, Saidulu allegedly invited Madhu to his residence while Jeevan waited outside. After Madhu became intoxicated, Saidulu informed Jeevan, following which the accused, with the help of others, allegedly attacked and killed him using a butcher knife.

Investigators said the accused later attempted to destroy evidence by stuffing the body into a gunny bag and dumping it near a culvert.