RCB Marketing Head Arrested in Connection with Bengaluru Stampede Incident

Arrest of RCB's Marketing Head

Nikhil Sosale, who oversees marketing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, was apprehended at Bengaluru International Airport and taken to Cubbon Park Police Station for interrogation related to the stampede that occurred during the RCB victory parade on June 4. Reports indicate that he was attempting to flee to Mumbai. Alongside Sosale, three other members from the DNA Event Management team were also detained at the airport.

Details of the Investigation

Investigators revealed that Sosale promoted the victory parade without securing the necessary police authorization. Furthermore, DNA staff disclosed that he directed them to announce the event on RCB's social media platforms regardless of the lack of permission. Initially, RCB shared comprehensive details about ticket distribution, which were later removed.

Crowd Management Issues

The announcement indicated that free passes would be available starting at 1 PM at gates 9 and 10, prompting fans to gather in large numbers. The official RCB account also stated that the event would kick off at 3 PM, which heightened excitement among the crowd. According to police reports, approximately 300,000 individuals converged at the venue, but only three of the 21 gates were operational, resulting in severe overcrowding.

Tragic Outcome of the Stampede

The tragic stampede, which resulted in 11 fatalities, occurred outside the stadium as nearly 300,000 fans gathered to celebrate Royal Challengers Bengaluru's IPL victory. The chaos ensued due to poor planning and limited entry points, leading to confusion and a heartbreaking loss of life.

Who is Nikhil Sosale?

Nikhil Sosale is an experienced marketing professional with over 15 years in the sports and beverage industries. He has been part of Diageo India for more than 13 years and took on the role of Head of Marketing and Revenue for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in September 2023. Sosale, who resides in Bengaluru, previously held the position of Head of Business Partnerships at RCB. He earned a double major from James Cook University in Queensland, Australia.

Connections with Cricket Stars

Sosale is known to have a close relationship with cricketer Virat Kohli and his wife, actress Anushka Sharma. He has been seen with Sharma in RCB's exclusive viewing areas during IPL matches, and Kohli is said to follow him on Instagram. His wife, Malvika Nayak, is also a close friend of Sharma, and the two are often spotted together at matches, attracting attention on social media for their friendship.