A 35-year-old man, identified as Yogananda, was arrested by the Bengaluru Police for allegedly robbing three women on the same night during Ganesh festivities last month in South Bengaluru.
Earlier, the police had arrested his 28-year-old accomplice, identified as N. Praveen, a resident of Peenya in North Bengaluru. He owns an autorickshaw and had moved to the city about six months ago.
According to the police, during the Ganesha festival celebrations last month, Praveen and Yogananda allegedly went on a robbery spree, threatening women with a machete and snatching their gold chains.
Between 8.30 p.m. and 9.30 p.m., the duo allegedly targeted women in Girinagar, K.S. Layout, and Konanakunte, robbing three victims of gold chains totalling 80 grams. Police registered a case of robbery.
CCTV camera footage from the area revealed that the two accused arrived on a bike and went on a stealing spree. Praveen rode the bike, while Yogananda threatened the women with a machete and snatched their gold chains. The melee left one woman injured.
Police traced the bike and arrested Praveen earlier this month, but Yogananda had remained at large. With his arrest, four cases in Bengaluru city have now been solved, the police said on Friday.
Police revealed that Yogananda is a rowdy-sheeter listed at the Byatarayanapura Police Station. He was released on bail about three months ago and soon became involved in this crime.
Lokesh B. Jagalasar, Deputy Commissioner of Police, South, said that Yogananda has around 25 cases against him and is involved in organised crimes. Police will verify and invoke sections related to organised crime.
According to the police, Praveen befriended Yogananda when the latter was lodged in Ramanagara prison. Praveen used to ferry Yogananda’s family members to meet him in jail. During those visits, the two grew close, and after Yogananda’s release, they planned the robbery together.
Published – October 17, 2025 06:10 pm IST
