Kidnap emissary contacts bandit

The kidnapping led to widespread protest in Bangalore

By Habib Beary in Bangalore

A magazine editor sent to a forest region of southern India to meet the bandit who kidnapped one of the country's leading film stars, has established contact with his associates.

The Karnataka state Home Minister, Mallikarjun Kharge, said the magazine editor, R Gopal, has succeeded in meeting Veerapan's associates inside the dense forest region where the bandit is hiding.

We have made some progress. Our emissary has established contact with Veerappan's associates.

Karnataka Home Minister Mallikarjun Kharge

Mr Gopal handed over vital medicine for the 72-year old actor, Rajkumar, who is being held hostage inside the forest by the bandit.

Mr Kharge said he received confirmation of the contact this evening and is hopeful that Mr Gopal will shortly be able to meet Veerappan himself.

Talks

Mr Kharge, however, refused to comment on a statement by the chief of police in the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu that Veerappan is likely to hold talks with Mr Gopal some time later on Thursday.

Veerappan is wanted for over 100 murders

Mr Kharge said his government is willing to consider Veerapan's demands in exchange for the safe release of the ageing actor.

Rajkumar, along with three relatives, was abducted on Sunday night by Veerappan, who is already wanted in connection with more than 100 murders.

All police operations against his gang have been suspended while negotiations take place.

Protests over the actor's abduction brought the southern city of Bangalore to a standstill earlier this week.