Actor Aishwarya Arrested: Director Kidnapping & Assault Case

New Delhi, February 26, 2026: In a shocking development that has sent ripples through the South Indian film industry, the Bengaluru police have arrested 11 individuals, including actor Aishwarya (also known as Ash Melo), in connection with the kidnapping and brutal assault of film director Aneesh.

The incident, which allegedly stems from a deep-seated financial dispute, involved a meticulously planned trap that saw the director lured from Mumbai to Bengaluru under the guise of a business deal.

The Honey Trap: Lured Under False Pretexts

Director Aneesh, who operates a modeling and casting agency and was working on the Kannada film Jeevada Bhashe, had recently moved to Mumbai. According to police reports, the suspects exploited his intent to sell his Honda CRV luxury SUV.

Knowing the director’s plans, the accused allegedly used actor Aishwarya—who had worked in the movie Bhima and was an acquaintance of the director—to establish contact. On February 9, 2026, Aneesh traveled from Mumbai to Bengaluru after being convinced that a serious buyer was interested in his vehicle.

Details of the Kidnapping and Assault

Upon his arrival in Indiranagar, Bengaluru, Aneesh was met by Aishwarya and a few other associates. The situation took a violent turn when he was taken to a secluded house on the city’s outskirts.

According to the official complaint:

• Illegal Confinement: Aneesh was locked inside an apartment where he was confronted by the prime accused, Ashirwad, and several others.
• Brutal Assault: The gang allegedly assaulted the director using cricket wickets and hockey sticks. The attackers demanded that he withdraw previous legal complaints related to a financial dispute.
• Robbery: The group reportedly robbed him of gold ornaments (including a 22-gram bracelet and rings) and cash, and forcibly withdrew money from his account using his ATM card.
• Instigation: Chillingly, the victim alleged that an investor, Lakshmi Narayana, was present via video call during the assault, actively instigating the attackers to beat him.

Police Action and Arrests

The Adugodi Police, led by DCP Sujeetha, launched a swift investigation after the injured director was abandoned near a hospital. Following a series of raids, the police successfully apprehended 11 suspects.

Current Status

The director is currently recovering from multiple injuries sustained during the ordeal. The police have confirmed that all 11 accused are in custody, and a comprehensive investigation is underway to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy. This case has highlighted the darker side of film financing and the lengths to which individuals may go over monetary disagreements.