Bengaluru: A 27-year-old man was allegedly burnt to death by a woman he was in a relationship with at her residence in Bengaluru, police said on Tuesday, adding that preliminary findings point to a premeditated act.

The victim, identified as Kiran from Tumakuru, was employed at a mobile service provider outlet. The incident took place around 2 pm in the Byadarahalli area of the city.

According to police, a cloth was found tied around the victim’s eyes when officers reached the spot. Initial investigation suggests that the accused, identified as Prema, may have restrained him under the pretext of a “western-style proposal”.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Northwest) D L Nagesh said both Kiran and the accused worked at a store near Bashyam Circle in Rajajinagar. Kiran had reportedly gone to her house to pick her up after a new outlet of their company opened in Nelamangala.

Police said the woman allegedly poured kerosene on him and set him on fire. “It is a case of murder. They were in a relationship, and she suspected he had been distancing himself,” the officer said.

Heavy smoke was reported from the house, and the victim’s body was later found in a charred condition. Fire and police personnel rushed to the scene and doused the flames.

At the time of the incident, the accused was alone at home as her family members were away. She initially told police that she was in the washroom and came out only after noticing smoke, finding Kiran’s body engulfed in flames.

Based on a complaint filed by the victim’s family, a case has been registered at Byadarahalli police station. Police said the accused will be taken into custody and questioned to establish the exact sequence of events.

Further investigation is underway.