13-year-old boy kidnapped, killed for money in Bengaluru; police launch hunt for 2nd accused
Bengaluru: A 13-year-old boy was allegedly kidnapped and beaten to death with a brick in Bengaluru, with his body later found inside the boot of a car following a series of road accidents. Police have arrested the prime accused, who was reportedly a resident of the same locality as the victim, while a second accused is absconding, the police said on Friday. The police have launched a hunt for the second accused.
The deceased has been identified as Prajwal, a resident of Vinayakanagar in Yelahanka. The accused has been identified as Bhaskar Reddy, who also lived in the same area. Police said Reddy was allegedly under the influence of alcohol when he committed the crime.
According to the preliminary investigation, Reddy took Prajwal in his car on Wednesday evening on the pretext of purchasing firecrackers for a Ganesh procession. However, instead of taking him to buy crackers, he allegedly kept the boy inside the car and demanded money from his family.
The accused also allegedly made Prajwal record a video and used it to threaten his parents and demand money.
Police suspect that Reddy subsequently assaulted the boy with a hollow brick while inside the car, killing him. He allegedly placed Prajwal’s body in the boot of the car and attempted to flee towards Andhra Pradesh.
During the journey, Reddy reportedly lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a wall. He later allegedly caused a series of accidents on Ballari Service Road, following which local residents caught him.
Chikkajala police reached the spot after being alerted about the accidents and inspected the vehicle. When they opened the boot, they reportedly found Prajwal’s body inside, leaving the police shocked.
During questioning, Reddy allegedly attempted to mislead investigators by claiming that the boy had accidentally come in front of the car and died in the accident. He reportedly told police that he was taking the body towards Andhra Pradesh on the instructions of a friend.
However, the preliminary investigation reportedly revealed that Prajwal had been murdered. Police subsequently arrested Reddy and are questioning him.
Police are also searching for the second accused, identified as Yelukundalavada, who is reportedly absconding. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.