Tue Feb 03 14:44:34 UTC 2026: # Tech Entrepreneur Betrayed: Samosa Outlet Dreams Turn Sour

The Story:

On February 3, 2026, the Banashankari police in Bengaluru arrested four men identified as Nihar, Santhosh, Madhu, and Manjunath for allegedly abducting Nithin Gowda on January 24, 2026, and extorting money and valuables from him. The accused allegedly kidnapped Gowda, a resident of Thyagarajanagar, and took him to a graveyard where they assaulted him, forced him to reveal his mobile phone password, and transferred ₹47,000 from his bank account. They also allegedly stole a 29-gram gold chain worth approximately ₹4 lakh. The perpetrators then threatened Gowda with false drug charges if he reported the crime.

Key Points:

  • The incident occurred on January 24, 2026, in J.P. Nagar, Bengaluru.
  • Nithin Gowda was allegedly kidnapped by Nihar, Santhosh, Madhu, and Manjunath.
  • The accused extorted ₹47,000 and a 29-gram gold chain valued at ₹4 lakh from Gowda.
  • The accused threatened Gowda with false drug charges.
  • Nihar, one of the accused, runs a samosa outlet and had known Gowda for two years, with plans to open a business together.
  • Gowda had previously lent ₹5,000 to Nihar, which was a possible trigger for the event.
  • Police recovered ₹39,000 from the accused.

Key Takeaways:

  • The incident highlights the potential dangers in informal financial arrangements, even among acquaintances.
  • The use of threats involving false drug charges indicates a calculated attempt to silence the victim and exploit societal stigma.
  • The case underscores the importance of robust law enforcement and swift action in response to abduction and extortion cases.

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