Karnataka: Woman M*rdered by Facebook Acquaintance After Two Days of Friendship

A shocking case has emerged from Karnataka’s Hassan district, highlighting the dangers of connecting with strangers on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. The incident involves a 28-year-old woman named Preeti, a mother of two, who was murdered by a man she befriended on Facebook just two days earlier.

The Story Unfolds

Preeti, who worked in a local warehouse while her husband was also employed, often spent her free time browsing social media and chatting with unknown people online. Four days ago, she accepted a friend request from a man named Puneet, despite having no prior connection with him.

Their online conversation quickly escalated from liking each other’s posts to exchanging phone numbers and chatting late into the night. Within two days, they agreed to meet in person. Puneet picked Preeti up in his Swift Dzire car, and together they visited various places around Mysuru before checking into a lodge named KSR Lodge, where they engaged in a consensual physical relationship.

A Deadly Turn

After their encounter, Puneet suggested dropping Preeti back home. However, she insisted on spending more time with him, which led to an argument. Preeti reportedly made a personal remark about Puneet’s intimate abilities, which infuriated him. In a fit of rage, Puneet slapped her and then struck her on the head with a stone, killing her instantly. He then transported her body about 30-35 kilometers away to his ancestral village and dumped it near his fields before fleeing the scene.

Discovery and Police Investigation

When Preeti did not return home, her worried husband reported her missing to the police. Police investigations led them to track her phone, which was answered by Puneet. He claimed that Preeti had rented his car and left her phone behind, attempting to mislead the authorities.

However, a separate police team examining Preeti’s social media discovered extensive chats with Puneet, revealing the true nature of their relationship. Police then lured Puneet by asking him to return the phone, assuring him there would be no questioning. Upon his arrival, he was arrested and confessed to the crime during interrogation. He led police to the location of Preeti’s body, which was found with severe injuries consistent with blunt force trauma.

A Cautionary Tale

The case has shocked locals and raised concerns about the risks of interacting with unknown individuals online. Police are now investigating whether Puneet has committed similar crimes in the past, as his actions suggest a possible pattern of psychopathic behavior.

The incident serves as a grim reminder to exercise caution when accepting friend requests or engaging in conversations with strangers on social media platforms. Authorities urge the public to prioritize privacy and avoid sharing personal information or meeting unknown contacts in person.

Community Response

The case has sparked widespread discussion about online safety and the dangers of trusting strangers, especially through social media. The police have placed Puneet in judicial custody and are continuing their inquiry to uncover any further details.