Bengaluru: A Bengaluru businessman was allegedly kidnapped and robbed of Rs 1.09 crore by a gang of seven men after being lured into what police suspect was a fake investment scheme. The shocking incident took place late on June 15 near Kuduregere Colony in Dasanapura Hobli.
Police have registered a case and launched an investigation to trace the accused involved in the kidnapping and robbery.
Businessman Lured Through Investment Offer
According to the FIR, the victim, 41-year-old R I Shiva Shankar, operates a scooter dealership in Yeshwantpur along with his business partners. Police said he was approached by several individuals from Andhra Pradesh and Hyderabad who allegedly convinced him to invest in a company called A.N.R.S. (American Nuclear Research System).
On June 12, three men identified as Mohammed Parvez, Allis and Johnson reportedly arrived in Bengaluru and checked into a hotel in Kodigehalli. A day later, they allegedly collected Rs 35 lakh from Shiva Shankar as part of the proposed investment.
Gunpoint Kidnap Near Yelahanka
On June 15, the suspects allegedly contacted the businessman again and informed him that Rs 74 lakh was ready for him. Following their instructions, Shiva Shankar travelled with his driver, Chethan M, in a Honda Amaze towards Yelahanka.
At around 11.05 pm, near a Ganesha temple in Kuduregere Colony, an SUV reportedly blocked their vehicle. Police said four men emerged from the SUV, threatened the businessman and his driver with a firearm and forced them into another vehicle.
The accused allegedly stole Rs 74 lakh that was kept in the boot of the car.
Gang Collects Additional Rs 35 Lakh From Victim’s Home
Investigators revealed that three members of the gang allegedly took the driver to Shiva Shankar’s residence and collected an additional Rs 35 lakh from his wife.
The gang also allegedly seized the victim’s mobile phone and vehicle before abandoning him near Nelamangala. Before fleeing, the accused reportedly warned him against approaching the police.
After consulting his family, Shiva Shankar lodged a complaint at Madanayakanahalli Police Station on June 16.
Police Register Kidnapping And Dacoity Case
Police have registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to kidnapping for ransom and dacoity.
The total amount stolen in the crime is estimated at Rs 1.09 crore. Investigators are examining all leads and working to identify and arrest the seven accused involved in the fake investment scam.
The incident has raised concerns about fraudulent investment schemes targeting businesspersons with promises of high returns and large financial transactions.