A 30-year-old factory worker in Ludhiana became the target of an international blackmail scheme after a former colleague secretly copied private photographs from his mobile phone. The accused, Irfan Hussain, 21, and a 17-year-old accomplice demanded a total of ₹10 lakh from the victim and his girlfriend, who resides in Canada.
How the Blackmail Unfolded
Lakhwinder Singh, a resident of Gautam Colony in the Tibba area, received a WhatsApp message from an international number on June 15. The sender demanded ₹5 lakh to prevent the photographs from being leaked. Subsequently, the extortionists made a separate ₹5 lakh demand to Lakhwinder’s girlfriend in Canada.
The breakthrough in the case occurred when Lakhwinder recognized a familiar voice during phone calls and voice notes sent by two different individuals. He recorded the conversations and played them for colleagues at his factory, who identified the voice as Hussain’s.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Assistant Sub-Inspector Avtar Singh, the investigating officer, stated, “The breakthrough came after Lakhwinder noticed a familiar voice on phone calls and voice notes sent by two different individuals. He recorded the conversations and played them for colleagues at his factory, who identified the voice as Hussain’s.”
Following a police investigation, Hussain was arrested and confessed to the crime. His 17-year-old accomplice was subsequently detained. Both suspects have been charged with cheating, extortion, and criminal intimidation under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Impact and Legal Proceedings
The case highlights the risks of sharing personal devices and the growing threat of digital extortion. The accused face serious charges that could lead to significant prison terms if convicted. The investigation is ongoing, and police are examining the suspects’ phones for further evidence.
