In a major breakthrough, the Crime Branch in Bhopal has solved a high-profile extortion case involving Rs 1.89 crore from an IAS coaching institute director. Six accused, including the alleged mastermind and former student of the academy, have been arrested.
According to police officials, the prime accused, Priyank Sharma, orchestrated the crime by luring the victim, Shubhra Ranjan, to Bhopal from Delhi under the pretext of a seminar and expansion of new coaching centers. Once she arrived, she was taken to a secluded location and held hostage at gunpoint.
Investigators revealed that the accused threatened the victim with pistols and country-made firearms, forcing her to transfer Rs 1.89 crore into accounts linked to entities named ‘Janakshila’ and ‘RS Enterprises.’ Acting swiftly after the incident came to light, the Crime Branch managed to freeze the transferred amount within hours. Officials confirmed that the refund process is underway and the full amount is expected to be returned soon.
The victim had checked into a five-star hotel near Bhadbhada before being taken by the accused to Bagsewania, where she was confined in a rented flat for two days. During this period, the accused coerced her into making multiple online transfers.
In a shocking twist, the accused also created a fake kidnapping video of one of their accomplices to further intimidate the victim and prevent her from approaching the police. Investigations revealed that the rented flat was secured just a day before the crime, and a religious gathering was organized there to mask any noise and avoid suspicion.
Police said that armed criminals from Datia and Rewa were brought in to execute the plan. After the crime, Priyank Sharma allegedly attempted to evade arrest by feigning illness and admitting himself to the ICU of AIIMS Bhopal. However, the police apprehended him from the hospital premises despite resistance and commotion created by his family members.
Further investigation has revealed that Sharma was planning to flee abroad after the robbery. Authorities are also probing the possible involvement of his wife in the conspiracy.
All six accused, including the mastermind, are currently in police custody, and further interrogation is underway.
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