In a major development from Punjab, police have arrested the father of a former manager linked to slain Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala in connection with an extortion racket involving ₹1 crore. The arrest was made by Khanna police in Ludhiana district following a complaint by a local commission agent (arhtiya).

According to reports, the accused allegedly demanded a hefty ransom from the businessman through threats, triggering panic in the trading community. The case has once again brought attention to the growing nexus of extortion networks operating in the region.

Threat calls and ransom demand

Police sources revealed that the Ludhiana-based arhtiya had been receiving threatening calls demanding ₹1 crore, allegedly from individuals claiming links with criminal networks. The complainant approached authorities after repeated intimidation, prompting swift action.

Investigators believe the accused played a role in facilitating or coordinating the extortion attempt. The arrest was made after technical surveillance and intelligence inputs helped trace the suspect’s involvement.

Extortion through phone calls and online platforms has become a recurring issue in Punjab, often linked to organised crime groups operating from abroad.

Family alleges illegal detention

The case has taken a controversial turn after the accused’s family, particularly his wife, alleged illegal detention and harassment by police. She reportedly submitted a complaint to the Director General of Police (DGP) in Chandigarh, claiming that her husband was picked up without due procedure.

Authorities, however, have denied any wrongdoing, stating that the arrest was conducted as per legal protocols and based on credible evidence. Officials maintained that due process is being followed and the accused will be produced before the court.

Police investigation and possible gang links

Police are now probing whether the accused has links with larger criminal or gangster networks, which have been increasingly active in extortion, threats, and violence across Punjab.

Investigators are also examining digital evidence, including call records and financial transactions, to establish the full scope of the racket. The possibility of handlers operating from outside India is also being explored, as seen in several recent extortion cases.

Rising extortion cases in Punjab

Punjab has witnessed a surge in extortion-related crimes in recent years, with businessmen, traders, and professionals often being targeted. Many of these cases have been linked to organised gangs that use fear tactics to extract money.

The killing of Sidhu Moosewala in 2022 had also highlighted the growing influence of gang networks and the prevalence of threats and extortion in the state.

Police assure strict action

Senior police officials have assured that strict action will be taken against all those involved, and no one will be spared if found guilty. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests may follow as authorities attempt to dismantle the network behind the extortion attempt.

The incident has once again raised concerns about law and order, with calls for stronger policing and protection for business communities in Punjab.