Pune-based businessman Vinayak Kashinath Naik (52) was murdered early Sunday (September 22) morning in Hankon village, located in the Karwar taluka of Karnataka.

Vinayak was attacked by a group of four to five unknown assailants while he was preparing to return to Pune after a stay in his hometown. Naik’s wife, Vrushali, was injured in the incident while attempting to defend her husband.

Naik, who owned a large and successful electrical and electronics business in Pune, had returned to Hankon for the annual Sateri Devi festival, which was observed from September 10 to 16. Despite the festival's conclusion, Naik extended his stay to perform the Shraddha rituals for his mother.

According to police reports, the attack occurred around 5:30 a.m. on Sunday as Naik was making arrangements to leave for Pune.

A car approached the residence, and within moments, four to five masked attackers armed with knives, iron rods, and swords charged at Naik. The businessman was brutally assaulted, and despite efforts to defend himself, he succumbed to the attack on the spot.

Naik’s wife, Vrushali, was also present during the assault. She bravely attempted to fend off the attackers, but sustained injuries in the process. She is currently receiving medical treatment and is reported to be in stable condition.

Local law enforcement officials responded quickly to the crime. A formal case has been registered at the Sadashivgad police station.

Karwar Superintendent of Police (SP) K. Narayan visited the scene and supervised the initial stages of the investigation. Deputy Superintendent of Police Girish has been tasked with leading a special investigative team to pursue leads in the case.

Police Superintendent K. Narayan addressed the media, confirming that the police are actively investigating the murder. He stated that they have reason to believe the attack was premeditated and carried out by professional assassins.