Guwahati, 29th April: Jorhat Police apprehended two individuals on April 29 on charges of extorting money from businessmen in Meleng Kapradhara.
Preliminary reports suggest that the arrested persons are suspected members of a ‘Lahon Gang,’ notorious for terrorizing locals and businessmen and extorting money under the guise of ‘goonda tax.’
The victim, businessman Pulin Mahanta from Gadmur MCA No. 2 Balu Mahal, filed a written complaint with the police, prompting them to initiate an investigation into the matter.
According to Mahanta’s complaint, he had a contract to supply soil to a businessman in Melang Kapradhara. While conducting excavation work, a group of individuals arrived at the site in a Bolero vehicle, claiming affiliation with the notorious criminal Babu Lahon.
The individuals allegedly brandished a pistol and demanded a “goonda tax” for allowing the excavation work to proceed. They demanded an initial payment of Rs 5 lakh, along with Rs 300 for each dumper.
Upon Mahanta’s refusal to comply, the group halted the excavation work and confiscated vehicles. Mahanta lodged an FIR, leading to police intervention and the recovery of the confiscated vehicles.
The incident has sparked concern in the district, underscoring the serious repercussions of extortion and intimidation by criminal elements.