Ludhiana Businessmen Targeted in Extortion Racket, Police Probe Stalls
In a troubling trend, city-based businessmen in Ludhiana are facing a surge in extortion calls, with threats emanating from known gangsters or unidentified individuals impersonating them. The latest incident involves a demand of Rs 20 lakh, highlighting the growing menace that has left the local business community on edge.
Recent Extortion Case Details
Gurpreet Singh, owner of the popular Palji Bakery chain, was at his shop on Sat Paul Mittal Road, commonly known as Malhar Road, when a call came from an international number. His staff answered, and the caller identified himself as Jaggu Lahoria, an associate of gangster Dilpreet Baba. The accused demanded Rs 20 lakh as extortion money and issued dire threats if the amount was not paid.
The caller explicitly warned Gurpreet Singh that he could meet the same fate as the owner of Sindhi Bakery in Rajguru Nagar, who was shot by assailants years ago for refusing to pay extortion. Immediately after the call, Singh alerted the police, leading to a case being registered by Division Number 5 police against unidentified accused under charges of criminal intimidation and extortion.
Police Response and Investigation Challenges
Despite multiple reports, police action has been limited to filing FIRs, with investigations often stalling. In recent months, several Ludhiana traders and businessmen have received similar extortion calls. While police have booked gangsters by name in some instances, the majority of cases involve unidentified accused, complicating probes.
A senior police official commented, "We recently busted a racket where gangsters enlisted local youths to gather target information and execute firings. Those involved have been arrested, including criminals brought from jails on production warrants. However, many callers are based abroad or use gangster aliases, making it difficult to trace them."
Victims Turn to Private Security Amid Safety Concerns
With police offering little beyond advice to "stay alert," victims are taking matters into their own hands. One businessman, who received an extortion call recently, shared, "The caller threatened to shoot me if I didn't pay protection money. I sought police protection but got no positive response, so I hired private security for my family and myself."
This shift towards private muscle underscores the growing fear and lack of confidence in law enforcement's ability to provide adequate safety. The situation has forced many in the business community to invest in personal security measures, adding to their operational costs and stress.
Broader Implications for Ludhiana's Business Environment
The recurring extortion threats not only endanger individual businessmen but also threaten the economic stability of Ludhiana, a key industrial hub. The inability of police to curb these activities raises concerns about governance and public safety, potentially deterring investment and business growth in the region.
As cases pile up with minimal resolution, the community calls for more robust police action and preventive strategies to combat this criminal wave effectively.
