Jaipur Police Apprehend Maharashtra Man in Blackmail and Extortion Case
In a significant development, the Jaipur City Police on Wednesday arrested a 47-year-old man from Palghar, Maharashtra, for allegedly blackmailing a 28-year-old scholar employed at a prominent Ayurvedic institute in Jaipur. The accused, identified as Sylvester Michael Fernandes, is charged with using explicit photographs to extort approximately Rs 10 lakh from the victim over the past year.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Karan Sharma confirmed that Fernandes was taken into custody following a raid at his residence in Keshavpura, Bhankrota, on Tuesday night. According to police reports, Fernandes had been residing in Jaipur for about a year, operating a food business after completing a food management course. The case was officially registered at the Brahmpuri police station on February 10, after the scholar filed a formal complaint detailing the harassment.
How the Blackmail Unfolded
Police investigations reveal that the complainant first met Fernandes approximately one year ago, and the two developed an acquaintance. Sharma stated that Fernandes later began threatening the scholar, falsely claiming that his "obscene photos and videos" were circulating on social media and warning of potential police action. This intimidation tactic was used to coerce the victim into paying money, with the blackmail persisting for nearly a year, resulting in the extortion of around Rs 10 lakh.
Ongoing Interrogation and Legal Proceedings
Fernandes is currently under interrogation as authorities delve deeper into the case. The police have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing to uncover any additional details or potential accomplices. This arrest highlights the serious nature of cyber-related crimes and the vigilance of law enforcement in protecting individuals from such predatory schemes.
Key Points of the Case:
- The accused, Sylvester Michael Fernandes, is 47 years old and hails from Palghar, Maharashtra.
- He allegedly blackmailed a 28-year-old Ayurvedic scholar in Jaipur using explicit material.
- Approximately Rs 10 lakh was extorted over a period of one year.
- The case was registered on February 10 at the Brahmpuri police station.
- Fernandes was arrested after a raid on his residence in Keshavpura, Bhankrota.
- He had been living in Jaipur for a year, running a food business post his food management course.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with online interactions and the importance of reporting such crimes promptly to authorities. The Jaipur police's swift action in this case underscores their commitment to combating cyber extortion and ensuring justice for victims.
