Were Fake Lawrence Bishnoi Gang Members Arrested in Mumbai for a Rs 20 Lakh Ransom Scheme?
Synopsis
In a shocking twist, four individuals have been arrested in Mumbai for attempting to extort a substantial sum from a local businessman while posing as members of a notorious gang. This incident highlights the rising concerns of organized crime in the city.
Key Takeaways
Four suspects were arrested for attempting to extort Rs 20 lakh.
The operation was linked to the infamous Lawrence Bishnoi gang.
The businessman negotiated the amount down to Rs 5 lakh.
The police successfully executed a plan to catch the suspects during the money handover.
The case is under investigation, highlighting ongoing concerns about organized crime.
Mumbai, Feb 19 (NationPress) In a rapid response, the Mumbai Police apprehended four young individuals accused of attempting to extort Rs 20 lakh from a jewellery entrepreneur, falsely claiming affiliation with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, officials reported on Thursday.
The incident unfolded in the Vile Parle region, where the businessman, who owns Mangal Royal Jewellers Pvt. Ltd. in Vile Parle East, received a menacing WhatsApp message from an overseas number on the night of February 12, demanding Rs 20 lakh. The sender threatened that failure to comply would lead to his assassination and asserted connections to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang operating from Canada.
Authorities stated that further threats were made over the next two days. On February 14, a caller claiming to be a gang member reiterated the demand. When the businessman indicated his inability to secure the full amount, negotiations led to a reduction to Rs 5 lakh.
On February 16, the businessman received directions to prepare the money and send employees to Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) in Kurla for the transaction. Having already informed the Vile Parle police, a trap was established under the guidance of Police Inspector Srinivas Chevle, with police teams deployed and security measures arranged for the businessman and his family.
Two staff members were dispatched to LTT with Rs 5 lakh in a bag, instructed to wait near a restaurant in the parking lot. Around 4:30 p.m., they received a call indicating that the collectors would identify themselves using the code word 'Lalpari'.
Shortly thereafter, four suspects arrived at the location, scanned the area, and requested the password before departing. Moments later, two of them returned, spoke the code word, collected the bag, and attempted to escape in an autorickshaw.
Police teams lying in ambush pursued the vehicle for nearly 200 meters, successfully apprehending all four suspects. Initially taken to BKC Police Station, they were later transferred to the Vile Parle Police.
Upon searching, authorities recovered the full Rs 5 lakh in cash, multiple mobile devices, a gold-colored phone, and travel tickets, including one from Pune to LTT.
During questioning, the suspects allegedly disclosed to police that they were instructed by two individuals named Imtiaz and Bashir, with plans to hand over the money to another individual, Sahil Sheikh. Each was reportedly promised Rs 5,000 for their involvement.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Deepak Narendra Dangol (19), Majid Sajid Khan (21), Faizan Firoz Khan (27), and Sahil Iliyaz Sheikh (20).
All four were taken into custody early on Tuesday. A case has been filed against them under pertinent sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and further investigations are ongoing.
Point of View
It is evident that organized crime continues to pose a significant threat to business owners and citizens alike. The prompt action by the Mumbai Police not only showcases their commitment to public safety but also serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges law enforcement faces in combating such criminal activities.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the amount demanded in the extortion attempt?
The extortion attempt involved a demand of Rs 20 lakh, which was later negotiated down to Rs 5 lakh.
Who were the suspects arrested in this case?
The arrested suspects have been identified as Deepak Narendra Dangol, Majid Sajid Khan, Faizan Firoz Khan, and Sahil Iliyaz Sheikh.
Which gang was allegedly involved in the extortion?
The suspects falsely claimed to be associated with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang.
What measures did the police take to apprehend the suspects?
The police set a trap after the businessman alerted them, leading to the suspects' arrest during the money transfer at Lokmanya Tilak Terminus.
What actions have been taken against the arrested individuals?
A case has been registered against them under the relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and further investigation is ongoing.
