The graveyard - which is located near Chikkapet on the outskirts of Bidanur and where members of the erstwhile Keladi royal family are buried - has ten tombs.
The treasure hunters are said to have performed a black magic ritual before digging the tomb. A broken earthen pot, lemon and cucumber were found scattered around the tomb.
The residents of Bidanur have expressed displeasure over the neglect of the administration towards the historical graveyard. They have urged the archaeology department to take steps to protect the tombs.
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