Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Oct 9: Threatening WhatsApp calls allegedly made in the name of underworld gangster Hemant Poojary, a prime accused in the murder of businessman David D’Souza at Mudarangady, have reportedly targeted entrepreneurs and prominent individuals in the district, including David D’Souza’s son. Complaints have been registered at three police stations in Udupi district and one at Mulki police station.
According to reports, the son of murdered businessman David D’Souza received a WhatsApp call demanding Rs 5 crore. The caller allegedly claimed that David D’Souza had caused significant losses to his brother and that he had arranged the murder. The caller reportedly threatened the victim’s son with dire consequences unless the amount was paid. Following a complaint, Shirva police have registered a case.
In another incident, an entrepreneur and a person associated with a private organisation allegedly received WhatsApp calls in Hemant Poojary’s name, demanding money and issuing death threats. Complaints in this connection were reportedly filed at Padubidri police station. Similar calls have also been reported in connection with Mulki police station.
David D’Souza’s murder case allegedly involved shooters brought from other states. His brother, contractor Kishore Poojary, is alleged to have been a key conspirator who, along with other associates, orchestrated the killing with the alleged assistance of Hemant Poojary.
Police have reportedly been searching for Hemant Poojary for the past 25 years. While the other accused in the murder case have been apprehended, Hemant Poojary remains untraced, and efforts to locate him are continuing.
The latest threat calls, allegedly made in his name, have raised concerns among the police. Investigators are now examining whether Hemant Poojary himself is behind the calls or whether unidentified individuals are impersonating him to extort money and threaten prominent people.