Criminal gang caught

Hyderabad, Aug 11 (UNI) A constable who deserted his job and formed a criminal gang was arrested today along with his associates in connection with a kidnap case and two hand grenades seized from him.

Police said the gang led by Indra Reddy demanded a ransom of Rs 60 lakh for releasing Yesu Babu, a realtor.

The kidnapping followed a dispute over some land transaction.

Though intially the gang sought Rs 60 lakh, they finally settled for Rs six lakh.

The police came to know the identity of the culprits from Yesu Reddy after he was released by his captors. They launched a search for Indra Reddy and his associates.

When he found himself trapped by the police who lay in wait near the Hyderabad Central University, Indra Reddy lobbed a grenade which, however, did not explode. They seized one more grenade from him after he was overpowered.

His colleagues S Indra Reddy (34), K Shiva Krishna (21), T Srinivas Reddy (28) and Bal Reddy (27) were later arrested on the information given by Indra Reddy. Cash amounting to Rs five lakh, a motorcycle, knife and a cell phone were recovered from them.

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