Kolkata Real Estate Developer Narrowly Escapes Alleged Kidnapping Attempt in Extortion Case
A real estate developer in Kolkata had a harrowing escape from an alleged kidnapping attempt that was reportedly linked to a significant extortion demand. According to a formal complaint filed by the victim, the terrifying incident unfolded on the evening of April 19 near a petrol pump located on Karl Marx Sarani.
Business Meeting Turns Into a Nightmare
The developer stated that he was lured to the location under the false pretense of a routine business discussion. Upon his arrival, he was allegedly confronted by a group of men who immediately demanded a hefty sum of Rs 18 lakh as so-called "protection money". This payment was purportedly required to permit the continuation of construction work at his ongoing project on Bhukailash Road.
Situation Escalates to a Public Knife Threat
When the developer firmly refused to comply with the extortion demand, the situation reportedly took a dangerous turn. The main accused is alleged to have summoned over 50 associates to the scene. In a brazen public act, one of these individuals held a knife to the developer's stomach, in what appeared to be an attempt to abduct him right there on the street.
The victim's desperate cries for help attracted the attention of nearby locals, whose intervention forced the assailants to flee the area, thereby preventing a potential kidnapping.
History of Previous Payments and Police Appeal
In his complaint, the developer further revealed that this was not his first encounter with the group. He claimed to have previously paid over Rs 1 lakh under duress from the same individuals. He has now urgently appealed to the Kolkata Police to investigate the matter thoroughly, specifically requesting an examination of the CCTV footage from the nearby petrol pump to identify the perpetrators and gather evidence.
This alarming incident highlights the ongoing challenges of extortion and intimidation faced by business professionals in certain sectors, underscoring the need for enhanced security measures and vigilant law enforcement response in urban areas.
