Karnataka gang kidnaps astrologer for ransom in Sri Sathya Sai

Police in Sri Sathya Sai district, India, have arrested a gang of seven kidnappers from Karnataka. They were targeting an astrologer named Manohar, who they believed could help them find hidden treasures. The gang kidnapped Manohar, his brother Rakesh, and their driver on March 6. They demanded a ransom of ₹11 lakh. Manohar was released on March 13 after his assistant delivered the money. However, the gang continued to hold Rakesh, the driver, and another victim, Ravi, and demanded an additional ₹5 crore. Superintendent of Police V. Ratna explained that the gang had learned about Manohar's wealth due to his involvement in building a temple. When he refused to help them locate treasures, they resorted to kidnapping. The victims were held in a secluded guest house where they were beaten. The police tracked the kidnappers' movements using technology. Manohar managed to alert the police, leading to a sting operation. The gang was apprehended on March 18 while waiting to collect the ransom on a highway. During the arrest, police recovered three firearms, seven bullets, two vehicles, a knife, and seven mobile phones, along with ₹1.50 lakh in cash. The gang members have been identified and are all from Karnataka.