He killed a 76-yr-old to fund his addictions

On March 7, Vishalakshamma was found murdered at her Banashankari II Stage residence, opposite Dhobi Ghat. The incident came to light after the victim’s grandson returned from school in the evening.

Mahesh, a taxi driver, has confessed to the killing. Mahesh has two younger brothers, who are software engineers.

The police zeroed in on him with the help of two vital clues. At 10.40 am, Vishalakshamma had asked Mahesh to dial the number of her son, who stays in Birur. The skipping rope, used to strangulate her, is evidence number two.

Background

Mahesh had known the victim for 16 years. Earlier, Vishalakshamma was staying in Thyagarajanagar where Mahesh’s parents were also staying. Mahesh owns a car and the vehicle is attached to a travels firm.

When Mahesh landed at Vishalakshamma’s house on the day of the murder, she opened the door without hesitation as she knew him. She also offered him tea. After some time, he sought water from her, followed her to the kitchen and strangled her, police said.

Later, with the jewels on her body, Mahesh went to Magadi Road. With the help of his friend Janardhan, he pawned the gold for Rs 51,000. He then went to a video game parlour in Basaveshwaranagar and lost Rs 23,000 at one go. The next day, he again landed at the same joint and blew the rest of the money.

Except for Rs 500, which he spent on liquor, all the money went for his gaming obsession.