The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has made a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the murder of BJP activist Praveen Nettaru in Karnataka in July 2022. This development involves the arrest of Mustafa Paichar, a crucial suspect believed to be associated with the banned Popular Front of India (PFI), along with his associate, Mansoor Pasha. The incident occurred in Bellare village of Dakshina Kannada district, with Nettaru allegedly being attacked and killed by individuals purportedly linked to the PFI.
The NIA's involvement in the case commenced in August 2022, after which they filed charges against 21 individuals, including eight fugitives connected to the crime. Mustafa Paichar, hailing from Sullia in Dakshina Kannada, was apprehended in Anemahal village, Hassan District, Karnataka. Paichar held the position of secretary within the PFI's Puttur district service team. His role extended to providing arms training to PFI members within the area, indicating potential involvement in activities geared towards preparing individuals for potential terrorist acts.
Furthermore, investigations have revealed Paichar's alleged participation in orchestrating a hit team within the PFI, with the purported objective of targeting Hindu leaders. It is suggested that Nettaru's murder was carried out at Paichar's behest, aimed at instilling fear within certain segments of society. This arrest marks a significant stride in the ongoing investigation, signaling progress in efforts to apprehend those involved in the crime and gather additional evidence to further the legal proceedings.
