Project Chintan

Search Underway for Tech Worker Missing During Bengaluru Area Trek

Authorities are searching for a 31-year-old tech professional who disappeared while trekking solo near Bengaluru last week. Police are investigating all possibilities, including foul play, as search efforts intensify.

· 2 min read
Updated

Key takeaways

  • Advait Upadhyay, a 31-year-old tech professional from Indore, has been missing since August 7 while trekking solo near Shivagange, Karnataka.
  • A large-scale search operation involving multiple agencies is underway, with police examining his digital activity for clues.
  • Investigators found that Upadhyay had made AI queries regarding the risks associated with falling from the hill.
  • Both local and Madhya Pradesh police are involved in the ongoing investigation, with assistance offered from Indore.
  • The family suspects potential foul play, including kidnapping and robbery, due to Upadhyay trekking alone.

Police in Bengaluru are actively searching for Advait Upadhyay, a 31-year-old man from Indore who went missing during a solo trek near Shivagange, Karnataka, on August 7. The Bangalore Rural Superintendent of Police, MV Chandrakant, confirmed that efforts to locate Upadhyay are ongoing.

What Happened

Upadhyay, employed at a financial firm in Whitefield, had informed his fiancée about his plan to trek at Shivagange and hired a motorcycle for the journey. He reportedly left the motorcycle at the base of the hills and proceeded on foot. CCTV footage has confirmed his ascent. A missing person report was filed on August 7 at the Kadugodi police station. The family has raised concerns about potential kidnapping and harm by robbers, given that he was trekking alone.

Key Facts

  • A 31-year-old Indore resident, Advait Upadhyay, went missing during a solo trek near Shivagange, Karnataka, on August 7.
  • Bangalore Rural Superintendent of Police MV Chandrakant confirmed the ongoing search operation.
  • Upadhyay was employed at a financial firm in Whitefield and was reported missing on August 7.
  • He informed his fiancée of his trekking plans and hired a motorcycle, parking it at the foothills.
  • CCTV footage shows him climbing the hills.
  • A missing case has been registered at Kadugodi police station.
  • Over 70 personnel from police, forest department, fire services, and NDRF are involved in the search.
  • Investigators are examining Upadhyay's digital activity, including queries made to an AI tool about the hill's height and consequences of a fall.
  • Madhya Pradesh Police have offered assistance to Karnataka authorities.
  • Indore Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Rajesh Dandotiya stated they contacted Karnataka police and offered assistance.

Background

The search operation involves over 70 personnel from various agencies, including the police, forest department, fire and emergency services, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). Investigators are reviewing Upadhyay's digital footprint leading up to his trek. Notably, searches revealed queries directed to an AI tool concerning the height of Shivagange hill and the potential outcomes of a fatal fall.

What Happens Next

Authorities are continuing an extensive search operation and investigating all possible angles. The Madhya Pradesh Police have contacted their Karnataka counterparts to offer assistance in the investigation.

Sources reviewed

Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.

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