Kannappa Makers React to Hard Drive Theft, “Cheap Tactics”

The producers of the forthcoming Telugu film Kannappa Makers React back aggressively following a hard disk holding precious movie footage stolen. The manufacturers, 24 Frames Factory, have denounced the act, labeling it a “cowardly attempt” to mar the release of the film.

Kannappa Makers React to Hard Drive Theft

The stolen hard drive had an essential action sequence between two leads, in addition to significant VFX work. The drive was being removed from Hive Studios, Mumbai, to the official office of production when it was seized illegally.

The makers shared an official statement saying, ”Shockingly, the package was unlawfully intercepted and signed for by an individual named Mr. Raghu, who acted under the instructions of a woman named Charita.

Neither of them are employees, representatives, or associates of 24 Frames Factory. Their act constitutes impersonation and theft. A police complaint was formally filed nearly four weeks ago, and the investigating authorities have been fully briefed on the identity of those behind this.

It is no secret who orchestrated this attempt—both we and law enforcement are well aware of the forces at play. The perpetrator’s identity is known, and the motive is clear. More disturbingly, credible intelligence has recently emerged that these individuals, under guidance from the same source, are planning to leak over 90 minutes of unreleased footage online in a desperate attempt to derail the release of Kannappa.

Makers action against the hard drive theft:

In response, the Executive Producer has formally escalated the matter to Cyber Crime authorities to take swift and firm action. It is disheartening to see such cheap and calculated tactics being deployed from within the industry itself. This is not mischief—it is sabotage, and it reflects a deeply unfortunate descent into personal vendetta-driven behaviour.

At a time when Telugu cinema is earning global recognition, stooping to such levels is not just regressive—it is disgraceful. We stand united with our team, our cast, and every technician who has worked with unshakable commitment to make Kannappa a cinematic landmark. We will not be shaken by these cowardly attempts.

Justice will be pursued with full force—and we trust that the truth, as always, will prevail. We urge the public and the media not to entertain or circulate any pirated content if it emerges, and to stand by the artists and technicians who have poured years of effort into this magnum opus. Integrity will triumph. – 24 Frames Factory”

The production house issued that the package was collected by a man by the name of Mr. Raghu, and he was acting on behalf of a woman by the name of Charita. None of them are employed with 24 Frames Factory, and their actions constitute fraud and theft.

Police Complaint and Investigation

There was also a complaint filed in the police legally almost four weeks ago, and the authorities are informed of the individuals involved. The case was also brought to the attention of Cyber Crime authorities by the production company, fearing that pirated shots of the film will be uploaded on the net.

Fear of Piracy of the Film
The directors believe that the culprits are a plot to release more than 90 minutes of unreleased footage in an effort to undermine the release of the film. They have made an appeal to the public and media to avoid viewing or distributing any leaked material.

ALSO READ: Kannappa VFX Footage Missing: Major Setback for Manchu Vishnu

Kannappa Team Stands United
In spite of the failure, the Kannappa team shows grit. Their release stressed that they will not be put off by such actions and will seek justice no matter what. They were also surprised that these actions would come from within the industry itself.

The episode is a demonstration of the increasing worry about sabotage and piracy in films in the film industry. Through the continued investigation, the movie producers and the film enthusiasts look forward to a conclusion which will allow the film to receive its rightful premiere.