Zirakpur Police Arrest Four Men for Impersonating Journalists in Extortion Scheme
In a startling case of impersonation and extortion, Zirakpur Police have apprehended four men for allegedly posing as journalists to blackmail and demand money from local shopkeepers. The authorities have identified the arrested individuals as Irbanpreet Singh, Mohit, Gursharan Singh, and Abhishek Thakur. Meanwhile, a fifth suspect remains at large, with police actively investigating their role in the scheme.
Details of the Extortion Incidents
According to a police complaint filed by Bikesh Kumar, a shopkeeper who has operated his business in Zirakpur for the past three years, the incident began on February 25. Irbanpreet Singh, accompanied by an accomplice, visited Kumar's shop and introduced himself as a journalist. The accused allegedly accused Kumar of illegally selling small, refilled gas cylinders and threatened to publish a damaging news report and file a police complaint against him. To avoid these consequences, they demanded Rs 5,000, but Kumar reportedly paid Rs 1,200 to settle the matter.
Later that same day, around 6 PM, the accused returned in a car with three additional individuals and targeted another shop in the vicinity. They allegedly threatened the shop owner, Hardeep Singh, and extorted Rs 2,000 from him. However, when locals gathered and Hardeep Singh demanded proper identification, the credentials of the accused appeared suspicious. Sensing foul play, the residents quickly overpowered the four men and handed them over to the police.
Police Investigation and Community Response
The Zirakpur Police have confirmed that the role of the fifth suspect is currently under investigation. This case highlights a growing concern about individuals exploiting the guise of journalism for criminal activities. The swift action by the local community in apprehending the suspects demonstrates a strong stance against such fraudulent behavior.
Key Points from the Case:
- The arrested men used false journalist identities to intimidate shopkeepers.
- Extortion demands ranged from Rs 1,200 to Rs 5,000, with payments made under threat.
- Local residents played a crucial role in detaining the suspects and alerting authorities.
- Police are continuing their probe to uncover the full extent of the extortion network.
This incident serves as a reminder for businesses to verify the credentials of anyone claiming to be a journalist and to report suspicious activities to law enforcement immediately. The Zirakpur Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate in preventing such crimes in the future.
