Extortion – Mangaluru Businessman Alleges ₹2.77 Crore Blackmail Scheme
Extortion – A businessman in Mangaluru has accused two individuals, including a local Youth Congress leader, of allegedly extorting ₹2.77 crore from him through threats involving private photographs and videos. The case has led to arrests and triggered a police investigation into what authorities describe as a prolonged blackmail operation.
Arrests Made Following Police Complaint
According to investigators, Youth Congress leader Nizam Ibrahim and his associate Jitesh were taken into custody by the Urwa police after a complaint was filed by the businessman. Officials allege that the accused used sensitive personal material to pressure the victim into making large payments over an extended period.
Police stated that the alleged intimidation began nearly two years ago when Jitesh reportedly demanded ₹35 lakh from the businessman. The demand was allegedly accompanied by threats that intimate photographs and video recordings would be released publicly if the money was not paid.
Initial Payments Through Cheques
Fearing damage to his reputation, the businessman reportedly issued three cheques to meet the demand. Investigators said the cheques were valued at ₹10 lakh, ₹10 lakh and ₹15 lakh respectively.
Authorities claim that ₹20 lakh was successfully withdrawn using two of the cheques. However, the third cheque for ₹15 lakh could not be processed because of insufficient funds in the complainant’s bank account.
Police further alleged that after the failed transaction, Jitesh continued to approach the businessman and repeatedly sought additional payments.
Alleged Expansion of the Blackmail Operation
As the pressure increased, the businessman reportedly sought help from Nizam Ibrahim, who was employed at his company at the time. Investigators allege that instead of assisting the victim, Nizam became actively involved in the alleged extortion plan.
According to the police, the accused then adopted more aggressive tactics to maintain pressure. One of the most unusual allegations in the case is that Jitesh’s death was falsely portrayed as a suicide. Authorities believe this was done to create fear that the businessman could face legal troubles or public embarrassment.
Victim Claims Payments Continued for Two Years
Investigators estimate that the businessman paid a cumulative amount of ₹2.77 crore during the alleged blackmail period. Police say the payments were made under continuous threats and coercion.
The alleged fraud eventually came to light when the businessman reportedly saw Jitesh in Mangaluru and realized he was alive. Until that point, he had allegedly been led to believe that Jitesh had died.
After discovering what he believed was a deception, the businessman approached the Urwa police station and formally lodged a complaint.
Case Registered Under BNS Provisions
Police have registered a case under Sections 308(5) and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Officers are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the allegations and are gathering further evidence as part of the ongoing investigation.
Political Action Follows Allegations
The case has also resulted in action within the Youth Congress organization. The Dakshina Kannada district unit has suspended Nizam Ibrahim from the party’s primary membership.
District Youth Congress president Ibrahim Nawaz issued the suspension order, citing allegations of indiscipline and activities considered contrary to party interests. Party officials have indicated that further decisions will depend on the outcome of the investigation.