A murder case involving a live-in couple has emerged from Bengaluru on Sunday, sending shockwaves across the city. A 22-year-old woman, a native of Sikkim, was hacked to death by her live-in partner after a dispute unfolded at their rented accommodation in the city’s Doddakanahalli area, police said.

The accused, identified as Purba Lepcha, was soon arrested by the police after murdering his live-in partner, Ati Hangma Subba, with a kitchen knife.

Couple relocated to Bengaluru recently

As per senior police officials, Subba, who hailed from Sikkim, was attached to a salon in Bengaluru, working as a receptionist. Meanwhile, Lepcha, a native resident of Darjeeling, was employed as a waiter at a hotel in the city.

The police learnt the couple was in a relationship and had shifted to Bengaluru just a month ago in search of a job. They were living together at a rented house in Doddakanahalli when the alleged murder transpired.

The incident came to light on Sunday morning, after which the cops sprung into action, taking Lepcha into custody. He was interrogated and was arrested thereafter.

Suspicion of affair triggered the crime

Preliminary findings conducted by police indicate that tensions had been brewing between the couple, which culminated in the murder. According to investigating police personnel, an argument ensued between the duo on Thursday morning after Lepcha allegedly suspected Subba of maintaining a close relationship with another friend.

The verbal altercation soon spiralled out of control and Lepcha allegedly picked up a kitchen knife, hacking Subba to death. According to cops, Lepcha slit her throat, inflicting injuries which proved fatal for her.

Probe underway

In the aftermath of the incident, the police registered a murder case against Subba, arrested him and launched an in-depth probe to piece together the sequence of events. Forensic teams and cops are examining evidence collected from the crime scene and are recording statements from people connected to the couple.

Authorities are also working to ascertain whether there were any prior complaints, warning signs or circumstances which may have contributed to the crime.