Bengaluru: The sensational kidnapping and murder of a realtor has taken a dramatic turn, with police claiming that the crime was allegedly orchestrated by the victim’s former business partner over suspicions of black magic.
Police have arrested eight accused, including two minors, in connection with the case. Investigators say the prime suspect believed the victim was practising black magic against him and plotted the crime as an act of revenge.
The victim has been identified as Gopal, while the alleged mastermind of the crime is Mohan Babu, his former business associate.
Abduction after staged road accident
According to police investigators, the incident took place on Sunday evening at around 7 pm near Anekal.
Gopal was travelling in an SUV along with his friend Satish when a mini-goods vehicle reportedly rammed into their car, forcing them to stop.
When the two men stepped out of the vehicle to check the damage, a group of attackers allegedly approached them.
Police said the attackers sprayed a chemical on Satish’s face, temporarily incapacitating him. They then abducted Gopal and forced him into another vehicle before fleeing the scene.
Satish later informed authorities about the incident, following which police launched a search operation.
Body found near Tamil Nadu border
The following morning, Gopal’s body was discovered dumped by the roadside near Denkanikote, close to the Karnataka–Tamil Nadu border.
After the body was recovered, the Anekal Police Station, which had earlier registered a kidnapping case, converted it into a murder investigation.
Police teams began analysing evidence and questioning people connected to the victim’s business and personal life.
Wife names former business partner
During the investigation, Gopal’s wife Swati told police that his former business partner Mohan Babu could be responsible for the crime.
She informed investigators that Mohan and his associates had allegedly assaulted Gopal earlier as well. However, no formal police complaint had been filed at that time.
According to her statement, Mohan was believed to have influence in certain circles, which may have discouraged the victim from pursuing legal action earlier.
Based on this information, police detained Mohan Babu for questioning.
Arrests made in neighbouring Tamil Nadu
Information gathered during Mohan’s interrogation reportedly helped police trace several suspects involved in the crime.
A police team later arrested Ananda, Santosh Kumar, Teja, Darshan and Nikhil, along with two minors, from a hideout in Krishnagiri late Tuesday night.
Investigators believe these individuals were directly involved in carrying out the abduction and murder.
Police officials confirmed that two other accused — Harsha and Narayanaswamy — are currently absconding, and efforts are underway to trace and arrest them.
Black magic suspicion cited as motive
During the investigation, police reportedly discovered that Mohan Babu had developed suspicions that Gopal was practising black magic against him.
Investigators said Mohan allegedly blamed Gopal for the difficulties he was facing in his real estate business.
Authorities believe this belief led to growing hostility between the two former associates, eventually culminating in the alleged conspiracy to abduct and kill Gopal.
Police are now examining the communications and financial dealings between the accused to establish the full sequence of events and confirm the motive behind the crime.
Investigation continues
Police officials said further investigation is ongoing to gather additional evidence and determine the exact roles of each accused.
Authorities are also attempting to track the two suspects who remain absconding.
The case has shocked many in the real estate community and raised concerns about the extent to which personal rivalries and superstitions may lead to violent crimes.