In a significant development, the Mumbai City Crime Branch has taken custody of notorious gangster Raviprakash, widely known as Ravi Pujari, in connection with a 2018 extortion case. The case revolves around a financial dispute between a prominent choreographer and a film producer, highlighting the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to tackle organized crime in the city.
Details of the Extortion Case
The extortion case dates back to 2018, when the wife of choreographer and film director Remo D'Souza lodged a formal complaint against Ravi Pujari. According to police reports, Pujari allegedly issued threats and demanded a hefty sum of Rs 50 lakh from the choreographer and his wife. The threats were made in the context of a dispute arising from a 2013 agreement between the complainant's production house, Om Shri Ganesh Films, and accused number 1, Satyendra Tyagi, for the production of the film "Death of Amar."
Background of the Financial Dispute
Differences emerged over various aspects of the film's production, including its release, editing, distribution, and financial arrangements. Between October 2016 and February 2018, gangster Ravi Pujari, identified as accused number 3, along with his associate Prasad Pujari, allegedly made repeated threats to the complainant, her husband, and their staff. These threats were issued from international phone numbers, adding complexity to the investigation.
The threats were reportedly made on behalf of Satyendra Tyagi to force the release of the film and to extort Rs 50 lakh for settlement. The perpetrators warned of serious consequences in case of non-compliance, creating a climate of fear. In 2018, police arrested Tyagi and another accused, Kamalsingh Rajput alias Raju, while Ravi Pujari remained absconding until now.
Legal Proceedings and Custody
Ravi Pujari, aged 56, was escorted by the gun-wielding special squad of the Crime Branch and produced before the Esplanade Magistrate Court on Thursday. The court remanded him to police custody until January 26, allowing authorities to further investigate the case. This marks the second instance out of nine pending cases in which Mumbai Police has taken Pujari's custody from a Karnataka jail, underscoring the seriousness of the charges against him.
Extensive Criminal Record
Pujari has a long and troubling criminal history, with 49 offences registered against him in Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, and Karnataka. His involvement in organized crime has led to multiple cases under the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). The government of Senegal granted permission last year to prosecute Pujari in nine additional cases registered in Mumbai, including three under MCOCA. This follows earlier permission for prosecution in 10 cases, reflecting international cooperation in tackling cross-border crime.
International Coordination
To secure approval for the additional nine cases, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) coordinated closely with Senegalese authorities. Their efforts culminated in obtaining permission last year, demonstrating the global reach of law enforcement agencies in pursuing justice. This coordination highlights the importance of international partnerships in addressing complex criminal networks that operate across borders.
The arrest and custody of Ravi Pujari represent a crucial step in Mumbai Police's ongoing crackdown on organized crime. As investigations continue, authorities aim to bring all perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of citizens from such extortion threats. The case serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by gangster activities and the relentless efforts required to combat them effectively.
