Former Mathematics Professor Nabbed in Nashik for Alleged Bomb Threat Extortion Scheme
In a startling case of criminal ingenuity, a 31-year-old former professor of Applied Mathematics has been apprehended by police from Nashik, Maharashtra. The arrest follows allegations that he orchestrated a bomb threat to extort a substantial sum of Rs 21 lakh from a coaching institute located in the Wazirpur Industrial Area of northwest Delhi.
Details of the Extortion Attempt and Police Investigation
The incident unfolded on April 2 when the manager of the targeted coaching institute received a menacing phone call at 11:42 am. The caller, identifying himself as "Babla Gurjar from Noida", issued a dire warning of an imminent bomb blast unless the demanded money was paid promptly. This threat prompted immediate action, leading to the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) at the Ashok Vihar police station and the launch of a rigorous investigation.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (north west) Akanksha Yadav provided insights into the meticulous police work that led to the breakthrough. "Our team conducted an exhaustive analysis of call detail records, subscriber information, and digital footprints," she stated. "This investigative trail ultimately directed us to Nashik in Maharashtra. In a remarkable display of efficiency, the police team covered a distance of nearly 2,800 kilometres in under 18 hours, successfully tracking down and arresting the accused."
Background of the Accused and Modus Operandi
The accused has been identified as Bachchu Jha, whose academic background adds a layer of intrigue to the case. During interrogation, it was revealed that Jha had previously served as a professor of Applied Mathematics in medical colleges across Haryana and Bihar. Authorities believe he leveraged his analytical expertise to meticulously plan these extortion calls.
"He utilized his skills to adopt fake identities and exploit fear as a tool to extract money from his targets," DCP Yadav elaborated. This methodical approach is suspected to extend beyond the Delhi case, with police investigating Jha's potential involvement in similar extortion attempts targeting a former MLA in Chhattisgarh and a lawyer in Bihar.
Ongoing Investigation and Seizure of Evidence
In the wake of the arrest, law enforcement officials are delving deeper into Jha's activities. "We are currently analysing his conversations and working to identify additional institutions or individuals he may have targeted," a police officer disclosed. As part of the evidence collection, a mobile phone allegedly used to make the extortion call has been seized, which is expected to provide further clues in the investigation.
This case underscores the evolving nature of crime, where educational qualifications can be misapplied for illicit gains, and highlights the relentless efforts of police in combating such threats to public safety.
