Belagavi Government Employee Arrested as Key Conspirator in Rs 50 Lakh Blackmail Case
In a shocking development, the Belagavi City Police on Monday arrested a government employee, identified as T Vinod, in connection with a high-profile blackmail case targeting a female government officer. The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the investigation into an alleged extortion attempt of Rs 50 lakh, orchestrated through the secret recording of the victim's private movements inside her residence using sophisticated concealed cameras.
Revenge Motive and Financial Gain Behind the Crime
According to police sources, Vinod is believed to be the primary conspirator behind this elaborate scheme. Investigators revealed that his actions were allegedly driven by a personal vendetta, stemming from the victim's purported role in his transfer. Furthermore, authorities suspect that the extorted money was intended to finance the purchase of a house, adding a layer of financial motivation to the crime.
Three YouTubers Already in Custody, Bail Pleas Rejected
This arrest follows the earlier apprehension of three individuals linked to YouTube content creation: Sameer Nisar Ahmed Sheikh, Abdul Nazeer Ahmed Makanadar, and Mohammed Dilawar Balekundri, all residents of Gokak taluk. The Malmaruti police had taken them into custody a couple of days prior. With Vinod's detention, the total number of accused in custody has now risen to four. The court has remanded Vinod to judicial custody and has also rejected the bail applications of the three previously arrested YouTubers.
Modus Operandi: Covert Camera Installation and Remote Operation
The investigation has uncovered a disturbing method of operation. The accused allegedly gained unauthorized access to the victim's home with assistance from her domestic help during her absence. They then installed high-end concealed cameras inside bulb holders, which were reportedly GPS-enabled and could be operated remotely. This technology allowed them to clandestinely record the victim's activities.
Blackmail Threats and Police Intervention
Using the compromising footage, the perpetrators allegedly threatened to publicly release the recordings and circulate them on social media platforms unless the victim paid a ransom of Rs 50 lakh. Faced with this intimidation, the woman officer bravely approached the Malmaruti police station. A special investigative team, led by Inspector BR Gaddekar and under the supervision of ACP Santosh Satyanaik, was promptly formed, leading to the arrest of the initial trio on Wednesday evening.
Substantial Evidence Recovered from the Accused
During the investigation, police have seized a significant cache of evidence from the accused. This includes a car, six concealed camera holders, three mobile phones, eight memory cards, pen drives, and memory card readers. Authorities are currently scrutinizing Vinod's mobile phone for further digital evidence and to uncover any potential communication links with the other members of the gang involved in this reprehensible crime.
