Amritsar Jeweller Gets Extortion Threats From Foreign Numbers

February 4, 2026

In a worrying crime development in Amritsar, Punjab, a local jeweller has reported receiving repeated extortion threats from unidentified foreign mobile numbers, prompting police to register a case and launch a probe. The extortion call incident came to light after the victim approached the Jandiala Guru police station with a detailed complaint.

Demand for Money, Threats to Family

According to the complaint, 30-year-old Kartik Malhotra, who runs the Malhotra Jewellery shop in Gali Gujran Wali near Valmiki Chowk, first received a WhatsApp call from a foreign number on December 17 last year. Shortly thereafter, the caller — claiming no identity allegedly demanded ₹30 lakh and threatened serious harm to him and his brother Ankit if the money was not paid.

Frightened by the threats, Malhotra deactivated his WhatsApp account temporarily, but upon reactivation he began receiving repeated calls and messages from another foreign number carrying similar threats, police said.

Police Register Case Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita

Following the complaint, the Jandiala Guru police registered a First Information Report (FIR) under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) including sections 308(4) and 351(2) which deal with criminal intimidation and attempt to extort money through threats.

Investigations on to Trace Callers

Police officials, including Aditya Warrior, Superintendent of Police (Investigations), confirmed that efforts are underway to trace the international phone numbers used in the extortion attempts. Teams are also working to determine whether the calls were routed through encrypted networks or VoIP services to conceal the culprits’ real locations.

Authorities said tracking foreign numbers can be challenging, especially when callers use international SIMs or internet-based calling platforms. Police are coordinating with cybercrime units to assist the investigation and potentially trace the origin of threatening messages and calls. Experts note that such cross-border extortion attempts have become more common with widespread use of internet calling services.

Growing Concern Over Extortion Calls

While this case involves direct threats for money, similar extortion attempts linked to fake gang affiliations or foreign numbers have been reported in the region in recent months. Law enforcement agencies have warned residents and business owners to exercise caution when receiving unsolicited calls from unknown or international numbers demanding money or threatening harm.

Advice to Citizens and Businesses

Police have urged members of the public, especially businessmen and traders, to report any suspicious calls or messages immediately. Officials highlighted that victims should avoid paying money or responding directly to extortionists, as doing so may encourage further criminal behaviour or endanger their safety. Increased vigilance can help authorities take swift action and protect citizens from such threats.