A prominent cloth trader in the holy city of Amritsar found himself at the center of a terrifying criminal plot this week, becoming the target of a brazen extortion demand for a staggering sum of Rs 50 lakh. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local business community and prompted a swift response from law enforcement agencies.
The Chilling Extortion Demand
The victim, identified as Rohit Mahajan, a resident of Ranjit Avenue and a well-known figure in the local textile trade, was going about his business when he received a menacing phone call. The caller, whose identity remains unknown, issued a direct threat, demanding a payment of Rs 50 lakh to ensure the safety of Mahajan and his family. The threat was explicit and left the trader in a state of fear and anxiety.
Acting promptly, Rohit Mahajan approached the authorities to seek protection and justice. He filed a formal complaint detailing the entire harrowing episode at the Central police station in Amritsar. In his statement, he provided the police with the phone number used by the extortionist to make the call, a crucial piece of evidence for the ensuing investigation.
Police Swing Into Action
Taking the complaint with utmost seriousness, the Amritsar Police have registered a formal case against the unidentified accused. The case has been filed under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code pertaining to extortion and criminal intimidation. The FIR number is 117, dated March 25, 2024, officially documenting the crime.
Law enforcement officials have confirmed that an intensive investigation is now underway. A special team has been assigned to track down the perpetrator. The primary lead is the mobile number provided by the complainant. Police are utilizing technical surveillance and call detail record analysis to trace the location and identity of the individual behind the threat.
Senior police officers have assured the public that they are pursuing all possible angles and are committed to apprehending the culprit at the earliest. They have also advised citizens, especially business owners, to remain vigilant and report any such suspicious communication immediately without succumbing to fear.
Community Concern and Business Impact
This incident has highlighted the persistent threat of organized crime targeting successful entrepreneurs in the region. The local trading community, particularly in bustling commercial areas like Amritsar, has expressed deep concern over such events which disrupt the sense of security essential for business operations.
Extortion rackets not only pose a direct danger to individuals but also create an environment of fear that can hamper economic activity. The police's prompt action in this case is being seen as a critical step in deterring such crimes and reinforcing the rule of law. The outcome of this investigation will be closely watched by residents and business owners alike, as it will signal the effectiveness of the security apparatus in tackling such serious offenses.
As the probe continues, the Amritsar Police have increased patrolling in market areas and are engaging with trader associations to bolster confidence. The message from the authorities is clear: such criminal intimidation will be met with the full force of the law.
