Keonjhar Police Crack Mining VP Kidnapping Case, Seven Arrested

Keonjhar: The Keonjhar police have successfully solved the high-profile kidnapping case of a mining company’s Vice President (VP) and arrested seven accused in connection with the incident.

The VP, identified as Nimananda Pradhan, was kidnapped on February 7. Acting on the complaint filed by his wife, the Barbil police launched an investigation, which led to the arrest of seven individuals. Police seized eight mobile phones, a toy gun, and ₹50.9 lakh from the ₹60 lakh ransom amount.

During the investigation, police discovered that the crime was planned one year ago by Sadab Khan, who collaborated with one of Pradhan’s office drivers, Firoz.

As part of the plan, the driver distributed laddoos in the office, pretending to celebrate the purchase of a new car. However, the sweets were spiked, causing Nimananda’s driver Akash and another staff member to lose consciousness.

Taking advantage of the situation, Pradhan requested Firoz to drop him home. Instead, Firoz abducted him and took him to Jharkhand, where the kidnappers demanded a ₹2 crore ransom from his family.

Police acted swiftly, rescuing Pradhan and arresting the accused. All seven individuals have been produced in court, and further investigation is underway.