6-year-old kidnapped for tantric ritual in Khargone:Starved and thirsty boy rescued after 22 days; 4 arrested including alleged godman

Khargone police have successfully rescued a six-year-old boy who went missing from Khangwada village after 22 days. Investigation revealed that the child was kidnapped for a tantric ritual aimed at bringing money rain. During his captivity, the boy was kept hungry and thirsty. Four people, including an alleged godman, have been arrested in connection with this shocking case. Family members were seen in tears of joy upon finding the child safe. Kidnapping reported on December 10 The boy was reported missing on December 10, 2025, after which the police immediately registered a case. SP Ravindra Verma personally inspected the site. When initial searches yielded no clue, police announced a reward of ₹10,000. With the support of ASP, SDOP, Cyber Cell, FSL, Fingerprint Team, and Dog Squad, the investigation gained momentum, ultimately leading to the child’s recovery. Detailed reconnaissance carried out before kidnapping Police revealed that the accused had studied the child’s routine before abducting him. On December 23, the boy was lured outside his home with a cricket bat and ball and kidnapped by bike. He was kept hidden in a rented room in Punasa, Khandwa district. Massive search operation launched SP Verma said over 100 police personnel from eight police stations combed through jungles and Narmada backwaters, while more than 100 CCTV footage were examined to trace the child. Police surveillance leads to arrest During the probe, police learned that Shubham alias Love Yadav was involved in black magic and money ritual activities and was in contact with an alleged godman living in Punasa. Undercover surveillance revealed a man, Surendra alias Pintu alias Ankit, bringing the child into the room. Upon sensing police presence, he attempted to flee, but the boy was recovered safely. Attempts to mislead investigation The accused had tried to mislead the investigation by placing a lemon garland on the boy’s photo outside his home and leaving a diary with unrelated names at the scene. Child kidnapped for tantric ritual During interrogation, the main accused admitted to practicing tantric rituals and claimed he needed a minor child to perform rituals to gain wealth and buried gold. All four accused, including the godman, have been arrested and are in police custody. Further investigation is underway.