Jamshedpur: Kidnappers of Kairav Gandhi, the 24-year-old son of noted Jamshedpur-based industrialist Devang Gandhi, have demanded a ransom of Rs 5 crore, even as Jharkhand Police intensified search operations across several states to ensure his safe recovery.
More than 48 hours after the abduction, police officials said no major breakthrough has been achieved so far, though the investigation has expanded significantly.
Ransom Demand Made Using a Foreign Number
Police sources said the ransom demand was conveyed through a foreign mobile number, which preliminary investigations have traced to Indonesia. The demand was reportedly sent via WhatsApp to the victim’s father.
Seven Special Teams Deployed Across States
To crack the case, Jharkhand Police have constituted seven special investigation teams. These teams are carrying out coordinated raids at suspected locations in Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal and Odisha, based on technical and human intelligence inputs.
Victim’s Movements Before Disappearance
According to police, Kairav Gandhi left his residence around 11.30 a.m. on Tuesday after informing his family that he would first visit an SBI branch in Bistupur, then proceed to his company in Adityapur, and return home for lunch. When he failed to return by 1.45 p.m. and his mobile phone remained switched off, the family raised an alarm.
Car Found Abandoned on NH-33
Later that evening, police recovered Kairav’s car abandoned near a resort on NH-33 in the Kanderbera area under Chandil police station limits in East Singhbhum district. The keys were found in the ignition, while his mobile phone was lying on the ground near the vehicle.
Police said the victim’s last known mobile location was traced to the Sonari Adarsh Nagar area of Jamshedpur, indicating that he may have been intercepted en route.
Suspicious Vehicle With Fake Police Insignia
Investigators have identified a suspicious vehicle that was repeatedly seen circling around Kairav’s car before the abduction. Though the vehicle bore police insignia, verification revealed that the registration number belonged to a different vehicle. A search is currently underway to trace it.
CCTV Footage and Forensic Evidence Under Analysis
The abandoned car has been sent for forensic examination. Joint teams from Jamshedpur and Seraikela police are scanning CCTV footage from toll plazas, highways and city exit points, while technical evidence is being collected through call detail records and electronic surveillance.
Cyber Cell Tracing Indonesian Connection
Meanwhile, the cyber cell is working to trace the source of the Indonesian phone number used by the kidnappers. Police officials said they are maintaining constant contact with the victim’s family and have assured them that all efforts are being made for Kairav Gandhi’s safe recovery.
The case has triggered heightened security and concern in Jamshedpur’s business community, as police continue their multi-state operation to track down the abductors.
