Rumours of human sacrifice after man injured during treasure hunt in Palamaner Forest

Chittoor: Amid rumours that a man was injured during an attempted human sacrifice as part of a ritual to find the hidden treasure in the Palamaner forest areas, the police have finally confirmed that he received injuries from an electric shock from an electric fence installed to prevent wild animals from entering fields.

On 19 February, 11 people had reportedly entered the forest area in search of a treasure. There were rumours that one man was attacked as part of a sacrifice ritual and was injured. The Palamner DSP Arifulla, however, said that a group had entered the forest looking for treasure but had returned on Tuesday night. Ganesh, a resident of Gadduru village in Palamaner mandal, had received severe burns when he accidentally came in touch with an electric fence meant to keeo away wild animals.

The other team members, fearing legal consequences, had admitted the victim to Ruia Hospital for treatment. The senior police officer denied that there was an attempt to kill a man for the hidden treasure. He said they had booked a case and would get clarification from the VRO of the village and take appropriate action after interrogation.

Further, two persons from Jaravaripalli of Palamaner and a black magic practitioner from Chennai had also participated in the hunt. Ganesh's in-laws had told the media that Ganesh had received injuries from a sharp sickle. There were also rumours that Ganesh had said there had been attempts to throw acid at him. Police are yet to confirm these reports.