Six individuals, including three YouTubers from Kerala, appeared for questioning before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Tuesday in Mangaluru, Karnataka. The SIT is probing an alleged case of multiple rapes, murders, and burials in Dharmasthala.
Those summoned were identified as Manaf, Abhishek, and Jayanth T, who operate YouTube channels in Kerala, as well as activist Girish Mattannavar, Vithal Gowda, and Pradeep, according to the SIT. The team is investigating the discovery of human skulls and bones in Dharmasthala, a case that has prompted widespread speculation, much of which has been amplified on digital platforms.
Officials said that the YouTubers were questioned to verify the content they had produced and the sources of their claims. Investigators have so far declined to disclose the details of the inquiry, noting only that the questioning remains at a preliminary stage. More individuals may be summoned as the probe progresses.
The case came to light after the discovery of skeletal remains in Dharmasthala, which triggered allegations and online narratives that the SIT was later tasked with examining. The investigation is focusing on both the physical evidence and digital material connected to the incident. Police have stated that further action will be based on the findings that emerge from these inquiries.
A controversy erupted after a complainant, later identified as CN Chinnaiah and arrested on charges of perjury, claimed to have buried a number of bodies, including those of women with signs of sexual assault, in Dharmasthala over a period of time. These allegations carried implications that pointed towards the administrators of the local temple.
Also read: Skeletal remains found during Dharmasthala case inspection
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