Pune: Extortion Plot Targeting Kargil War Hero Thwarted In Kondhwa; One Arrested
A retired army colonel, celebrated for his valorous service during the Kargil War, found himself at the center of an extortion scheme. The perpetrators, seeking to exploit the decorated veteran’s reputation and bravery, demanded a ransom of Rs 25 lakh.
Responding promptly to the alarming situation, Kondhwa police initiated an investigation against the alleged culprits posing as social activists. Their swift action culminated in a meticulously planned operation near Clover Hills Plaza on NIBM Road, resulting in the arrest of one suspect caught red-handed while accepting the extortion money.
The accused, identified as Amar Kisan Kasbe and Vijay Jatan Londhe from Dahisar West, Mumbai, now face charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code. While Vijay Londhe has been detained, Amar Kasbe, with a history of prior criminal cases, remains elusive.
Colonel (Retd) Navinder Singh Bevali, residing at 816 Clover Hills Plaza, Kondhwa, filed a formal complaint. He served in the Indian Army from 1999 to 2019, retiring with the rank of colonel, and notably participated in the Kargil War and other military operations. Post-retirement, he established ‘Radiant Guard Services Private Limited’, operating at a multistate level.
The extortion attempt unfolded with Kasbe allegedly sending a threatening letter to Colonel Bevali, followed by intimidations via WhatsApp. Subsequent demands for money were made, escalating the coercion tactics.
The police, in coordination with the victim, set up a trap to apprehend the extortionists. Despite several attempts by Kasbe to collect the ransom, the police thwarted each move. Ultimately, Vijay Londhe was caught red-handed while attempting to collect the extortion amount.
Assistant Inspector Rajesh Usgaonkar is leading the investigation into this case, which highlights the vigilance of law enforcement in protecting citizens from such nefarious activities.
