Bangalore: Popular Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa and his wife, Pavithra Gowda, have been arrested in connection with the murder of a man in Bengaluru. In addition to the couple, ten other individuals have also been taken into custody by the police.

The 47-year-old actor and his wife were apprehended from his farmhouse in Mysuru and brought to Bengaluru for questioning.

The victim, 33-year-old Renuka Swamy, was found dead at Sumanahalli Bridge in Bengaluru. Swamy, who worked at an Apollo Pharmacy branch in Chitradurga, had allegedly sent derogatory messages to Darshan's wife.

Three suspects confessed to the murder, claiming they acted on the instructions of actor Darshan. Swamy's parents had filed a missing person's complaint, but were initially asked to wait as it had only been a day since he went missing. The murder was reported on June 9, and a case was subsequently registered.

The arrests of Darshan and his wife followed a complaint filed by Swamy's mother. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the actor was directly involved in the murder or part of a conspiracy.

An autopsy revealed Swamy had multiple injuries, including on his nose, back, leg, and chin, with 14 to 15 marks on his body. The report indicated Swamy was likely hit with a heavy object, and injuries consistent with being struck by a rod were found.

The post-mortem report is expected to be handed over to the police on Wednesday. Meanwhile, tight security has been provided at Darshan's house in RR Nagar.

Darshan Thoogudeepa is a prominent figure in the Kannada film industry, also known as Sandalwood. He has made a successful transition from television to film, with several hit movies including 'Kalasipalya', 'Saarathi', 'Yajamana', and 'Roberrt'. His most recent film, 'Kaatera', was released in 2023.

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