Mumbai: Police arrest two in alleged extortion case involving Malad bar owner

Bangur Nagar police with arrested accused Mansuri and DM Jadhav (hooded). Pic/By Special Arrangement

The Bangur Nagar police have booked three people for allegedly extorting money from a Malad West bar owner by posting fake videos on X (formerly Twitter) and other social media platforms, claiming the establishment was running an illegal hookah parlour. Two accused have been arrested, while one remains at large.

Fake videos

The 28-year-old owner of "Open Your Soda Bottle" on New Link Road, Bangur Nagar, alleged that three individuals tagged the Mumbai Police in fabricated posts, filed false complaints claiming illegal activities were occurring at the establishment, and misused the police helpline to spread misinformation.

A police officer told mid-day, "Police personnel visited and inspected the establishment several times but found no illegal activity."

Cash demand

Initial demand: Extortionists demanded a Rs 3 lakh lump sum and Rs 25,000 monthly
Negotiated deal: The one-time payment dropped to Rs 1.05 lakh plus the monthly fee
First payment: The bar owner paid Mansuri Rs 25,000 in cash on September 28
Conversation recorded: The owner recorded a conversation with Mansuri on October 5 regarding the alleged demand
Final setup: Mansuri demanded more cash on October 12, scheduling a meeting outside the bar for October 13

Police trap

Police subsequently laid a trap. According to the complaint, Mansuri arrived at around 12.50 am and allegedly instructed the complainant to place Rs 10,000 in the storage compartment of his two-wheeler. After the complainant did so and signalled the police, the team apprehended Mansuri on the spot. Police recovered Rs 10,000 from the vehicle and seized cash, a mobile phone, and other items during the operation.

Official Speak

Jayawant Pawar, Senior Inspector Bangur Nagar police station
‘Mansuri's alleged associates have been identified as DM Jadhav, and Pankaj. While Jadhav has been arrested, Pankaj is absconding. Police registered an FIR on October 13 under the relevant sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Further investigation is underway.'

Business hit

The complainant alleged that the videos damaged the restaurant's reputation and affected its business. When he confronted, Mohammed Faizan Salim Mansuri, 36, the latter allegedly threatened him, saying, "We will continue our work; we'll see how you run your business."