Ahmedabad Tailor Targeted in Elaborate Extortion Scheme by Impersonators
In a distressing incident from Ahmedabad, a 65-year-old tailor based in Ghatlodia has filed a formal complaint with the detection of crime branch, alleging that two men masquerading as crime branch officers extorted a staggering sum of Rs 7.5 lakh from him. The complainant, who has been operating a tailoring shop near Vijay Crossroads in Navrangpura for several decades, also manages another outlet in Hindola Complex, Vastrapur. This second location, previously a tailoring unit, was recently converted into a spa run by a 30-year-old woman on a profit-sharing basis, operating daily from 1pm to 8pm.
Deceptive Entry and Immediate Threats
According to the complaint lodged on Tuesday, the ordeal began on February 5 when the tailor and the spa manager were present at the Vastrapur premises. Two individuals entered the shop, claiming to be officers from the crime branch, and immediately started recording a video. They accused the tailor and the spa manager of engaging in illegal activities, threatening to file a police case against them. To avoid legal trouble, the men demanded Rs 2.5 lakh as a settlement fee.
Fearing severe consequences, the complainant complied under duress. He paid Rs 1.5 lakh in cash and transferred an additional Rs 49,000 online on the same day. The following day, the imposters made further demands, leading to another payment of Rs 50,000, which was allegedly handed over by the spa manager.
Escalation of Demands and Additional Payments
The situation intensified on February 14 when the duo returned, this time demanding a much larger sum of Rs 5 lakh. They took the tailor to his home, issuing stern warnings against informing the police about the extortion. Under continued pressure, the tailor paid Rs 4.5 lakh in cash and transferred Rs 50,000 online, bringing the total extorted amount to Rs 7.5 lakh.
Subsequent investigations by the tailor revealed that the men were not genuine police personnel, exposing the fraudulent nature of their claims. Compounding the issue, the spa manager has been untraceable since February 14, adding a layer of mystery to the case.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
The city crime branch has launched a thorough probe into the incident, aiming to identify and apprehend the culprits. This case highlights the vulnerabilities faced by small business owners to sophisticated scams and impersonation tactics. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and verify the credentials of individuals claiming to be law enforcement officers before complying with any demands.
Key Details of the Extortion:
- Victim: 65-year-old tailor from Ghatlodia, Ahmedabad.
- Amount Extorted: Total of Rs 7.5 lakh through multiple transactions.
- Method: Impersonation of crime branch officers with threats of false cases.
- Current Status: Crime branch investigation underway; spa manager missing.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community awareness and prompt reporting of such fraudulent activities to prevent further victimization.
