The victim, 33-year-old freelance journalist and YouTuber Mukesh Chandrakar, was reported missing on January 1. His body was discovered two days later in a septic tank on a property owned by Suresh in Bijapur's Chattanpara area. The discovery prompted the formation of the SIT to investigate the case.
Prior to his disappearance, Mukesh had reported on alleged corruption in local road construction projects, implicating contractor Suresh. This report, broadcast on December 25, is believed to have been a motive for the murder.
In addition to Suresh, authorities have arrested his brothers, Ritesh and Dinesh, and a supervisor, Mahendra Ramteke, in connection with the crime. All suspects are currently in custody as the investigation continues.
The case has sparked political controversy, with Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma alleging that Suresh is affiliated with the Congress party. The Congress party, however, contends that Suresh recently joined the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).