Pune Crime Branch Quashes Extortion Racket, Arrests Alleged Culprit

Pune: The Anti-Extortion Squad of the Pune Crime Branch has taken decisive action against Shekhar Maruti Londhe (37), a resident of Nagpur Chawl, Yerawada, who stands accused of extortion under the guise of being associated with Mathadi labourers.

The investigation uncovered that Londhe obstructed furniture workers from unloading materials from a truck belonging to the complainant, citing his local status. Additionally, he purportedly demanded a monthly payment of 18,000 rupees from the complainant for housekeeping and labour contracts, while menacingly threatening harm if his demands were not met. The complaint, which detailed the alleged extortion, was promptly received and acted upon by the Anti-Extortion Squad of the Crime Branch.

Upon scrutiny of the complaint, it emerged that Londhe had already extracted 12,000 rupees from the complainant. Further investigations revealed that Londhe lacked any legitimate work order from the complainant’s company regarding Mathadi labour, and he was not registered as a worker with the Mathadi Board. Consequently, the police have registered a case of extortion against him.

In light of this development, the Pune Police has issued an appeal to all traders, businessmen, and company representatives to promptly report instances of extortion and illegal demands for money from unauthorised Mathadi leaders.