Bengaluru: A 25-year-old rowdy sheeter was hacked to death by a group of armed assailants in front of his mother at Amarajyothi Layout in Thanisandra on Wednesday (February 25, 2026) evening. Police have launched an intensive manhunt to trace and arrest the accused, who are currently absconding.
The deceased has been identified as Pavan Kumar (25), a history-sheeter listed at the DJ Halli Police Station. According to police, the incident appears to be the fallout of old enmity.
Attack by armed group
Police said six assailants arrived at Amarajyothi Layout on three motorcycles, wearing helmets to conceal their identities. Pavan Kumar was reportedly standing outside his house when the group attacked him.
The assailants allegedly used lethal weapons and repeatedly assaulted him, killing him on the spot before fleeing the area. The sudden and brutal nature of the attack left residents in shock.
His mother, who witnessed the entire incident, reportedly screamed for help and attempted to intervene. However, the attackers allegedly pushed her aside and managed to escape before neighbours could respond.
The murder, carried out in a residential locality during the evening hours, has raised concerns among residents about safety and law and order in the area.
Police investigation under way
On receiving information, personnel from the Sampigehalli police station rushed to the spot and conducted a preliminary inspection. The body was shifted for post-mortem examination, and a case has been registered.
Senior police officials said that special teams have been formed to track down the accused. CCTV footage from nearby houses and commercial establishments is being analysed to identify the suspects and trace their movements.
Preliminary investigation suggests that the murder was committed due to old rivalry. Police are probing Pavan Kumar’s past criminal associations and recent activities to establish the motive and identify those involved.
Criminal background and attempt at reform
Police sources said Pavan Kumar had earlier been named as the fifth accused in a murder case and had served a jail term. He was released from prison in May 2025 and had since returned to his residence in Thanisandra.
Family members told investigators that they had been trying to help him turn over a new leaf after his release. Around one-and-a-half months ago, they had opened a bakery shop near their house to enable him to earn a livelihood and stay away from criminal activities.
However, investigators suspect that past enmities may have resurfaced, ultimately leading to the fatal attack.
Search for accused continues
Police said efforts are on to identify and apprehend all those involved in the crime at the earliest. Teams have been deployed to likely hideouts, and known associates are being questioned.
Authorities have appealed to the public to share any information that could help in tracing the accused.
The incident once again highlights the recurring issue of revenge killings linked to prior criminal records, even after attempts at rehabilitation. Further investigation is under way.