Missing 84-year-old man traced after 25-day search

The Govindapura police have successfully traced an 84-year-old man suffering from dementia who had gone missing last month, following a sustained 25-day search operation across the city.

According to the police, the elderly man, identified as Gautham Ganguly, went missing on February 19 at around 11 a.m. from Veerannapalya. A missing person case was subsequently registered. The police said the missing man, described as wheatish in complexion and of medium build, was suffering from a mental health condition.

Mr. Ganguly, who retired as a senior officer in Kolkata port, came to the city to stay ten months ago. He stepped out of the house for a walk, lost his way and had been missing since then.

Following the complaint, the police launched an extensive investigation under the guidance of senior officers. Multiple special teams were formed, which conducted searches across various parts of Bengaluru. Teams visited several police stations, railway stations, bus stands and other crowded public places in an effort to trace him. The police also analysed CCTV footage, circulated information through social media platforms, and checked hospitals and shelter homes as part of the probe.

The police found him walking near Bannerghatta, Byatarayanapura and Chamarajapete on CCTV footage. He was later found on the roadside after being knocked down by a two-wheeler while crossing the road in Bannerghatta. A few passersby took him to the hospital, where doctor treated him for multiple fractures.

Based on the Medico-Legal Certificate from the hospital, the police managed to track him down and alerted the Govindapura police, who confirmed it was indeed the missing man. In a heartwarming moment, the police reunited Mr. Ganguly with his family, as an emotional father-son reunion unfolded at the police station, marking the successful end of the operation.