The Mumbai police's crime branch has arrested self-proclaimed social media influencer Randeep Singh Gujral for allegedly attempting to extort money from paneer vendor Amandeep Behl. Gujral claimed to have found insects in Behl's product and created a defamatory video against him.
Details of the case
Behl, who runs Punjabi Paneer in Mulund West, was targeted by Gujral, who allegedly claimed links with government officials. After Gujral's complaint, police and BMC officials visited the shop, issued notices, and temporarily shut it down.
Behl later discovered a reel on a media outlet maligning his business. Gujral allegedly demanded money to settle the matter with the media outlet and civic authorities.
Demand for money
Police said Behl was directed to Ajish Pannikar, allegedly linked to the media outlet, who demanded Rs 2 lakh per month for six months. On June 10, Gujral, his son Harbinder Singh Gujral, and wife Arvi Randeep allegedly negotiated a sum of Rs 2.85 lakh. Behl transferred Rs 56,000 before the police laid a trap on Monday.
The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are expected. The police have urged the public to report any similar extortion attempts.
