In a shocking incident reported from Karnataka's Haveri district, a young man was allegedly abducted, held hostage for four days, and subjected to extreme physical torture after he failed to clear the accumulated interest on a loan of 70,000 rupees. Police officials revealed details of the harrowing case on Monday, confirming that an FIR has been registered and a thorough investigation is underway following a formal complaint lodged by the victim, who managed to escape from the clutches of his captors.
Victim Worked at a Local Bakery
According to police records, the victim has been identified as Manikant Halavalli, who worked for a living at a local bakery. The incident took place within the jurisdiction of Bankapura town in Shiggaon taluk of the district. Investigators stated that Manikant had previously borrowed 70,000 rupees from the accused individuals. In return for the borrowed sum, he had been regularly paying a monthly interest ranging between 1,500 and 2,000 rupees, along with a separate weekly installment. However, over the preceding few weeks, he fell behind on these interest payments, which allegedly triggered the violent backlash from the lenders.
Four Days of Captivity and Inhumane Torture
As per the details mentioned in the police first information report, the abduction took place on October 16. The accused reportedly intercepted Manikant, dragged him to an isolated location, and kept him bound and locked away in confinement for four consecutive days. During this prolonged period of captivity, he was beaten ruthlessly with wooden logs and pipes. The tormentors also burned him with cigarettes and subjected him to unspeakable degradation, which included forcing urine into his mouth during the ordeal.
Escape from Captivity and Police Complaint
After enduring continuous abuse for four days, Manikant finally managed to break free and escape from his captors on October 20. He immediately approached the local police station to file a formal complaint. The victim informed investigators that he had no prior personal enmity with the accused men and that the entire brutal episode stemmed solely from the dispute over the pending loan amount and accrued interest charges.
Accused Identified and Hospital Treatment Underway
Police have named Manjunath Katti, Naveen Hangal, Ganesh Swadhi, and Sunil Katti as the accused in connection with the crime. Law enforcement authorities are currently investigating the specific role of each suspect, as well as the exact circumstances surrounding the kidnapping and assault. Meanwhile, the victim is receiving medical treatment for his injuries at the district hospital, and further updates on the case are awaited as the probe progresses.
