Delhi Police Crack Down on Extortion Syndicates Targeting Traffic Personnel
In a significant development, the Delhi Police have apprehended two additional alleged extortionists connected to organized criminal syndicates that specifically targeted traffic police personnel. These gangs are accused of employing sophisticated tactics, including covertly recording and manipulating videos of officers on duty, to blackmail and extort money from them.
Details of the Arrests and Syndicate Operations
The two accused individuals, identified as Amir Chaudhary and Sanjay Gupta, were arrested in separate operations conducted by the police. This brings the total number of arrests in this case to ten people, highlighting the scale of the criminal networks involved.
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Sanjeev Yadav, the case was initiated based on a complaint from Delhi Traffic Police personnel. The complaint arose when a commercial Light Goods Vehicle (LGV) attempted to evade checking by displaying a fake 'March 03' sticker, which falsely claimed exemption from challans (traffic fines).
Investigation Reveals Parallel Illegal System
The investigation, which included a thorough analysis of WhatsApp groups used by drivers, uncovered that two syndicates were operating a parallel illegal system for challan exemptions. These syndicates engaged in dual criminal activities: cheating vehicle owners and extorting money from traffic police officers.
The modus operandi involved secretly recording traffic police personnel during challan proceedings and then manipulating these videos to create false evidence of bribery. The gangs used these doctored videos to threaten officers with severe consequences, such as suspension, departmental inquiries, vigilance actions, or false criminal cases, unless they cooperated with the syndicate's demands.
Masterminds and Associates Identified
Police have identified Jeeshan Ali and Rajkumar, also known as Raju Meena, as the masterminds behind these syndicates. Both individuals have already been arrested in connection with the case.
Amir Chaudhary, who worked as a cab driver, was an associate of Jeeshan Ali. He was caught red-handed while collecting extortion money from a government official, demonstrating the syndicate's brazen operations. On the other hand, Sanjay Gupta received training from Rajkumar Meena and his associate Riyazuddin specifically to prepare manipulated videos, indicating a specialized role within the criminal network.
Legal Framework and Ongoing Efforts
The case has been registered under Section 112 (organized crime) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, underscoring the serious nature of the offenses. The Delhi Police continue their efforts to dismantle these syndicates completely and ensure that all involved parties are brought to justice.
This crackdown highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in combating organized crime and the innovative, yet illicit, methods employed by criminals to exploit systemic vulnerabilities.
