A 54-year-old real estate broker, Venkata Ratnam, was murdered in broad daylight in the Saket Colony area of Jawaharnagar, Hyderabad. The incident occurred on Monday morning after he dropped his daughter at school and was returning home on his scooter.

A group of unidentified individuals intercepted him near a private school, dragged him off the vehicle, and attacked him with knives. Reports indicate that the attackers also opened fire during the assault. Ratnam died at the scene before help could arrive. Weapons and a bullet casing were later recovered from the location, and CCTV footage captured the attackers fleeing in an auto-rickshaw.

Police confirmed that Ratnam had a criminal background and was previously linked to a double-murder case. Investigators are examining whether the killing was connected to past disputes, criminal rivalry, or issues related to real estate dealings. Multiple investigation teams have been formed, and authorities are reviewing camera footage and increasing security in the area to prevent further disturbances.

Ratnam is survived by his wife and two daughters.