In response to a surge in extortion calls targeting traders in Ranchi, local police have released an advisory urging residents to treat such calls as suspicious and report them promptly. The advisory comes after several business owners, including a well-known jeweler and a restaurant proprietor, received threats from gangsters demanding money.
Background of Extortion Threats
A delegation from the Federation of Jharkhand Chambers of Commerce and Industries recently met with Director General of Police Tadasha Mishra to demand action against the perpetrators. Police noted that traders in areas such as Ratu and Nagri have been receiving WhatsApp calls and messages from individuals claiming to be members of criminal gangs or extremist groups, demanding levy or extortion payments.
Advisory Details
The police advisory emphasizes that unknown WhatsApp calls originating from country codes 1, 44, 82, 264, and others, especially those involving demands for money, should be considered suspicious. Residents are advised not to answer such calls and to immediately block the numbers. All suspicious calls, messages, and WhatsApp contacts should be reported to the helpline number 1930 or through the Sanchar Saathi portal. Additionally, complaints should be filed at the nearest police station to facilitate legal action.
Police have stressed the importance of preserving evidence, including call logs, chat transcripts, audio recordings, and screenshots, as these can aid investigations. They also warned against making any payments under any circumstances.
Police Response
When questioned about ongoing measures against gangsters, Additional Director General Manoj Kaushik stated, "Police are working on the issue, but nothing could be disclosed now." Authorities continue to monitor the situation and urge the public to remain vigilant.
