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A disturbing incident of alleged extortion by members of a poll flying squad has come to light in Thane, Maharashtra. Five individuals, including two constables, have been charged by the police for allegedly extorting ₹85,000 from a flower merchant after threatening him. The incident occurred on October 18, 2024, at Mharal Naka in Thane, a time when the model code of conduct was in place for the upcoming state assembly polls scheduled for November 20. This incident raises serious concerns about the integrity and conduct of officials tasked with upholding the law and ensuring fair elections.
According to reports, the flower businessman and his friend were traveling in a car to Ahmednagar and Pune. They were carrying a substantial amount of money, ₹7.5 lakh, intended for payments to farmers for purchases made during the Dussehra festival. As they drove towards Murbad, their car was intercepted by the accused. The flying squad members allegedly threatened the duo, claiming their money would be seized and a case would be filed against them. In a blatant abuse of power, they allegedly extorted ₹85,000 from the flower merchant, leaving him vulnerable and financially distressed.
The accused's actions are further compounded by their alleged failure to follow established procedures. They reportedly did not inform their superiors about the money found with the flower businessman, nor did they adhere to the protocol for raids and seizures. The Ulhasnagar police, after conducting an investigation and receiving a complaint from a poll official, registered a case against the five accused on November 9, 2024. They are facing charges under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including extortion, disobeying the law, assault, and criminal acts done in furtherance of a common intention. This case highlights the urgent need for stricter measures to prevent such incidents of corruption and abuse of power, particularly during sensitive periods like elections.
Source: Case against 5 members of flying squad for extorting ₹85,000 from bizman in Thane