Kidnapped youth rescued; 1 held

Panipat, October 19

The police today rescued a youth, who was kidnapped three days ago from a hostel here. He was rescued from Machroli village near Jhajjar.

The victim was identified as Sidharth (22) of Jaipur. SP Rajesh Duggal said kidnappers had demanded Rs 20 lakh in ransom, brought down to Rs 6 lakh later.

One of the accused, Sonu, was arrested; a country-made pistol and Rs 6 lakh were seized from him. Three of his accomplices fled after firing at the police.

Duggal told the media here today that Sonu, Monu and Sonu, all from Shekhupura in Gharaunda, and Sanjay of Machroli kidnapped the youth at gunpoint and kept him in Sanjay’s fields. The kidnappers called his father, demanding Rs 20 lakh in ransom. The father approached the police, the SP said.

On October 18, the kidnappers called again. The ransom was brought down to Rs 6 lakh.

The SP said two policemen accompanied the father to the designated place. One of kidnappers came on a motorcycle in Machroli to take the money. As per plan, the father refused to give money till his son was released. After some time, another accused came there with Sidharth. The police tied to nab both accused, but got hold of one. — TNS