Telangana Police rescued a 24 -year-old girl who was kidnapped from her residence at Adibatla area in the outskirts of Hyderabad by a mob yesterday on the eve of her engagement and arrested 32 of the accused. Police said the girl is safe and has appeared in her examination as well.

The parents of the young woman M Vaishaili Reddy, a student of dentistry, alleged that a mob of 80 people wearing masks and face covered with handkerchiefs had barged into their residence, vandalized their home and the vehicles parked around and kidnapped the girl.

They blamed K Naveen Reddy, who allegedly had been stalking and harassing her after his marriage proposal had been turned down by the family. Vaishali and Naveen had met some months ago. He runs cafes called ‘Mr Tea’ and one of his franchise outlets was coming up just opposite to Vaishali’s residence.

Her parents and friends brought in earthmovers and destroyed the shop and also blocked Nagarjunasagar Highway in protest. After they lodged the complaint of kidnapping Rachakonda Police swung into action. By evening Vaishali called up her parents and informed that she was safe and in the city.

“Rachakonda Police swung into action immediately after the incident and rescued the victim within six hours. She also attended her examination today,” said the police. Police have so far arrested 32 people and seized Thar and Bolero vehicles used for committing the offence.

According to police, 16 teams were formed soon after the incident. They put roadblocks and checked vehicles and lodges, footage of CCTV cameras. They also checked the hideouts of all accused. “Further searches by special teams are still on to nab the remaining accused and collection of proper evidence to ensure successful prosecution. The case will be taken to a logical conclusion by collecting strong scientific and direct evidence,” said the statement issued by the Rachakonda Police.

Governor Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan expressed her ‘shock’ over the incident. On Twitter, she assured the family that “the culprits will be booked as per law. Request Telangana DGP for necessary action to safeguard the family and the girl.”

The police also sought to assure the citizens. “We assure the citizens that all such anti- social elements who breach the law and order will be cracked down with stern legal action,” said the Rachakonda Police.