Law enforcement authorities in Karnataka’s Belagavi district have dismantled an elaborate robbery conspiracy, resulting in the arrest of seven suspects. Among those taken into custody is a police constable who was actively serving as the personal security officer, or gunman, for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA and former state minister, Ramesh Jarkiholi. The operation, which came to light following a detailed police investigation, centered on a calculated attempt to defraud and rob a local businessman of ₹2.68 crore.
According to the preliminary findings released by the police, the scheme was orchestrated by the prime accused, identified as Chidanand Kurabet. Investigators allege that Kurabet lured the targeted businessman into a trap by promising a 30 percent bonus on cash payments, provided the funds were processed through specific bank transfer arrangements. The complexity of the operation suggests a high degree of premeditation, as the suspects allegedly exploited the businessman's trust to orchestrate the heist.
The victim, acting on the promise of the lucrative bonus, reportedly went to significant lengths to accumulate the substantial sum. Details from the investigation indicate that the businessman gathered the required ₹2.68 crore by borrowing from a network of sources, including various cooperative societies, commercial banks, and personal loans from friends and relatives. The victim had intended to deposit or exchange the money based on the fraudulent terms offered by the perpetrators.
As the case unfolded, police acted on intelligence and intercepted the plot, leading to a major recovery of funds. Officials confirmed that they have successfully recovered ₹2.39 crore in cash linked to the attempted robbery. The recovery marks a significant development in the case, as investigators continue to probe the involvement of the seven suspects who have been placed under arrest.
The inclusion of a police constable in the conspiracy has drawn heightened attention to the case. Serving as the gunman for a prominent political figure, the constable's alleged role in such an enterprise raises questions regarding internal security and professional conduct. Police authorities have maintained a neutral stance, stating that the investigation is ongoing to determine the full extent of the involvement of each individual arrested in the conspiracy.
While the recovery of the majority of the cash represents a success for the local law enforcement, the incident highlights the ongoing challenges posed by sophisticated financial crimes and fraudulent schemes targeting business owners. The investigation remains active, with authorities looking into potential linkages or additional suspects who may have assisted in the planning or execution of the robbery.
As the legal process begins, the seven accused are expected to face charges related to the robbery plot and associated financial crimes. Further details regarding the court proceedings or subsequent updates from the police department are expected as the investigation into the attempted theft of the ₹2.68 crore concludes. For now, the case stands as a notable example of inter-agency cooperation in identifying and preventing large-scale financial fraud within the region.
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