Karthik alias Ramu, a Ballari native, allegedly swallowed a locker key during questioning at Madanayakanahalli police station in Bengaluru on April 24. Police stated he faced POCSO charges related to a missing minor case. The incident caused panic, leading to his transfer to a private hospital under police security.

Officials reported doctors and police attempted to facilitate natural passage of the key by administering approximately 10 kilograms of bananas over three days. The key was recovered via excretion late at night, confirming successful treatment.

Senior officers have criticized station personnel for handling the situation, citing alleged lapses. No charges have been filed against Karthik yet, though investigations into the missing minor continue. Further police inquiries are ongoing.

The case highlights unusual challenges in custodial interrogations. Officials have not indicated immediate changes to protocols but are reviewing the incident.