India's most wanted Veerappan 'ready to surrender'

Reports say one of India's most wanted criminals, Veerappan, is ready to surrender.

Around 2,000 police officers have gathered in a Karnataka forest after reports said he's ready to give himself up.

Veerappan is wanted in connection with 100 murders, kidnapping and the killing of 2,000 elephants for their ivory.

Sanje Suddhi reports the police are from the Karnataka Special Task Force.

It says the message from Veerappan was relayed to police by his former associate, Kolathur Mani.

The police are camping in the forests of Satyamangalam where Veerappan and his colleagues were reportedly seen by locals early this week.

Veerappan has evaded capture for over two decades.

Police chief, Kempiah said: "We don't know yet if the latest offer is a sign of fatigue on his part or a diversionary tactic. In any case we are fully on guard.

"The fact that he has not imposed any preconditions this time is encouraging news. We will wait for him to show up. It will be good for everyone if he finally surrenders."