Dayananda Reddy, a senior BJP leader and former member of the Karnataka Legislative Council, was abducted by an armed gang on June 2, 2024 [1].
The kidnapping of a high-profile political figure on the outskirts of Bengaluru highlights security vulnerabilities for public officials and the persistence of organized extortion rackets in the region.
The incident occurred around 12:15 a.m. [1] within the Attibele police limits [1]. Reports indicate the abduction took place near Huskur in Anekal taluk [4]. The gang allegedly lured Reddy with a gift before seizing him at gunpoint [2, 4].
During the abduction, the kidnappers sought an extortion payment of Rs 2 crore [2]. There are conflicting reports regarding the conclusion of the event; some accounts state Reddy agreed to pay the ransom before being released [2], while others state he was freed without any payment [4].
Further allegations have surfaced regarding the motives behind the crime. One report mentions an alleged contract to kill Reddy valued at Rs 10 crore [2].
Local authorities have been notified of the incident, which took place on a Sunday night [1]. The investigation continues to determine the identity of the armed gang and the specific motives driving the extortion attempt.
“Dayananda Reddy was abducted by an armed gang on June 2, 2024.”
This incident underscores the targeting of political figures for high-value financial gain through kidnapping and extortion. The discrepancy in reports regarding the ransom payment suggests a complex negotiation or a tactical ruse by the victim to secure his release, while the mention of a high-value contract for assassination indicates that the threat to the former MLC may extend beyond simple financial extortion.
