In a significant breakthrough, the police in Daltonganj have apprehended a key operative of an international extortion network, thwarting a planned attack on a local jeweller. The arrest has shed light on the operations of a gang with connections spanning from Jharkhand to Kuwait.
Arrest Foils Planned Shooting
The Palamu Superintendent of Police, Reeshma Ramesan, announced that the accused, identified as Shahrukh Ali, was arrested during an anti-crime check on January 1. The operation took place around 8 pm near Giriwar School in Daltonganj. According to the SP, Shahrukh attempted to flee but was swiftly captured by the alert police team.
Investigations revealed that Shahrukh Ali is a member of an extortion racket based in Kuwait. He was allegedly tasked with firing at a jeweller named Ranjit Soni to intimidate him into paying extortion money. The police stated that the accused received Rs 30,000 for this job and was acting on the instructions of his nephew, Atif Khan, who is currently in Kuwait.
Gang Links and Seized Evidence
The police have established that the gang has links to Dhanbad-based fugitive gangster Prince Khan. This is not an isolated case; last month, two other individuals connected to Prince Khan were arrested for similar extortion plots. Notably, one of them was also instructed to open fire at Soni's jewellery store.
From Shahrukh Ali, the police recovered substantial evidence, including:
- A country-made pistol
- Two rounds of live ammunition
- A motorcycle
- A mobile phone
Following his arrest, Shahrukh was presented in court and sent to judicial custody on Friday.
Enhanced Security Measures and Police Vigilance
In light of the repeated threats, the police have advised jeweller Ranjit Soni to enhance his security. "We have asked Soni to install CCTV cameras at his shop and residence," stated SP Reeshma Ramesan. The police are also maintaining a close watch on the situation. "We are watchful too and assessing the situation as far as the jeweller's safety is concerned," the SP added, assuring proactive measures to prevent any harm.
This arrest underscores the persistent challenge posed by organised extortion rackets with international links and highlights the vigilance of the Daltonganj police in protecting local businesses from such criminal threats.
