The Indore Crime Branch has apprehended a key operative of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, Rahul Singh Rathore alias Baba, who was carrying a reward of Rs 25,000. This arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the crackdown on an extortion racket targeting businessmen in the city. With this latest arrest, the total number of accused held in the case has increased to six.
Details of the Arrest
Rahul Singh Rathore, 34, a resident of Bijana village in Dewas district, was wanted with a reward of Rs 15,000 announced by the Special Task Force (STF) and an additional Rs 10,000 by the Indore Crime Branch. Police officials revealed that Rathore was one of the closest associates of the gang's alleged local mastermind, Rajpal Chandawat of Nagda, who had been arrested earlier in the case.
Investigation and Arrest Process
The crackdown began after multiple complaints and intelligence inputs highlighted that traders and businessmen were being threatened in the name of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. In response, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Crime Branch was constituted to identify and apprehend those involved in the extortion network.
During the interrogation of Rajpal Chandawat, police gathered crucial information about Rahul's role within the gang. Based on these inputs, the SIT tracked him down and arrested him from his native village in Dewas district.
Role in Gang Operations
Police investigations revealed that Rahul played an active role in the gang's operations. He allegedly conducted reconnaissance of the residences, offices, and establishments of businessmen targeted by the gang. Investigators also found that he coordinated financial transactions among gang members and provided technical and logistical support to facilitate criminal activities.
Preliminary questioning further uncovered that Rahul arranged weapons for Rajpal Chandawat and recruited youths who were allegedly used for surveillance and firing incidents linked to the gang. Police believe he acted as an important link between gang members, helping ensure the smooth execution of their plans.
Criminal Record and Previous Cases
Crime Branch officials stated that Rahul's criminal record has surfaced during the investigation, and details of his previous cases are being compiled. The police are working to build a comprehensive case against him.
Other Arrested Accused
The five accused arrested earlier in the case include Rajpal Chandawat of Nagda, Sonu alias Ritesh Khangar (Solanki) of Indore, Sachin alias Ved Prakash Sharma of Ujjain, Nana alias Rohit Barra of Ujjain, and Kuldeep of Kasari Chauhan village in Ratlam district.
Police said sustained interrogation of the arrested accused is underway, and investigators expect more significant disclosures regarding the gang's network, extortion activities, arms procurement, and other associates operating across the region.
