Kidnapped father-son duo rescued within hours

Rajkot: Gadhada police in Botad district rescued a man and his father within hours of them being kidnapped by seven men on Monday and arrested three of the accused.

Rahul Vanodiya and his father, Ghugha, were kidnapped in two cars, allegedly by Viram Bharwad, Rama, Deva, Khengar, Daya, Mom and Navghan.

The kidnapping was linked to Rahul's brother, Aakash, allegedly eloping with the wife of Viram's brother, Lakhman. During their captivity, the victims were beaten and threatened with death.

On receiving a report from Rahul's mother, Botad deputy superintendent of police Maharshi Rawal formed multiple teams. Using human and technical intelligence, officers tracked down the kidnappers and determined that both vehicles were headed to Botad. Police set up barricades and intercepted one of the cars.

Ghugha was rescued, and Viram, Rama and Deva were arrested. Meanwhile, the other vehicle, which was heading toward Sayla, was pursued by Gadhada and Botad police, forcing the kidnappers to abandon Rahul by the roadside and flee.

A search has been launched for the four absconding accused. The investigation revealed that 10 days ago, Viram had contacted Ghugha, demanding the return of his brother's wife.