Palnadu district was rocked by a double murder in Adigoppala village of Durgi mandal after midnight on Sunday, December 21, 2025, triggering fear and tension among local residents. The incident occurred within the jurisdiction of the Durgi police station, prompting swift intervention by law enforcement agencies.
The victims were identified as Kotha Hanumantha Rao and his younger brother Kotha Sriramamurthy, both residents of the village.
Premeditated Attack Using Deadly Weapons
According to police officials, the two brothers were hacked to death with hunting sickles in what is believed to be a premeditated attack. Hanumantha Rao was reportedly killed near Boddurai Centre on the outskirts of Adigoppala village, while Sriramamurthy was murdered near the Nidhanampadu Ammavari temple.
Both victims sustained severe head injuries and died on the spot, police confirmed after preliminary examination.
Personal Rivalry Identified as Primary Motive
Palnadu Superintendent of Police B. Krishna Rao stated that early investigation points to long-standing personal rivalry as the motive behind the murders. He noted that tensions between two families had surfaced approximately two to three months ago, following a clash over unresolved issues.
“That earlier incident appears to have triggered the present murders,” the SP said, adding that investigators are examining all angles linked to the dispute.
Accused Identified, Manhunt Underway
Police have identified the prime suspects as Yaganti Naresh (30) and Puvvada Ramalingam (32), both residents of the same village. The accused are believed to have fled the scene after carrying out the attacks.
Special police teams have been constituted to trace and arrest the absconding suspects. Checkpoints have been set up in and around the region, and coordinated efforts are underway to prevent their escape.
Security Tightened to Prevent Further Violence
Following the incident, police rushed to the scene, secured the area and shifted the bodies for post-mortem examination. Additional police forces have been deployed in Adigoppala village and surrounding areas to prevent retaliatory violence and maintain public order.
Officials stated that surveillance has been increased and preventive measures are in place to ensure that the situation does not escalate further.
Community Impact and Law-and-Order Concerns
The double murder has heightened concerns over unresolved local disputes and the escalation of personal rivalries into violent crime. Residents have expressed fear and anxiety, prompting authorities to engage with community leaders to restore calm and confidence.
Law enforcement agencies have reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice and maintaining peace, emphasising that those responsible will be brought to book without delay.
Focus on Justice and Prevention
The Palnadu double murder case stands as a stark reminder of the consequences of unresolved conflicts and the importance of timely intervention. As the investigation continues, police authorities have assured strict action against the accused and reinforced their resolve to uphold law and order.
Ensuring accountability, preventing retaliatory violence and addressing underlying disputes remain key priorities as the district works to restore normalcy.