Delhi Lawmaker Arrested in Alleged Extortion Ring Tied to International Gang
In a dramatic turn of events, Naresh Balyan, a member of the Delhi Legislative Assembly for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), was arrested on Saturday by Delhi Police’s Crime Branch. The arrest stems from an ongoing investigation into an alleged extortion racket connected to notorious gangster Kapil Sangwan, who operates from the UK.
Sangwan, a key ally of infamous gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, is currently the subject of a red corner notice, indicating an international manhunt for his apprehension.
This week alone, Sangwan’s alleged shooters terrorized two businesses in Delhi. The incidents, occurring in Paschim Vihar and Chhawla, involved indiscriminate gunfire following extortion demands. Earlier in August, a popular confectionery in Tilak Nagar faced a similar attack, allegedly orchestrated by Sangwan after the owner refused to pay a hefty sum as protection money.
Balyan had been under scrutiny since the emergence of an audio recording, purportedly capturing a conversation between him and Sangwan, also known as "Nandu." The recording allegedly reveals discussions about "vasooli", a slang term for recovery or extortion, with references to escalating threats, demanding ransoms, and the distribution of collected money.
A Construction Developer’s Nightmare:
One chilling case detailed in the recording involves Guru Charan, owner of ASD Builders, allegedly targeted by Sangwan. Charan reportedly faced death threats if he didn’t comply with extortion demands. This prompted Charan to file a complaint with the Delhi Police, triggering the investigation that ultimately led to Balyan’s arrest.
In the intercepted recording, Balyan allegedly inquires about Sangwan’s target, to which Sangwan replied that Charan, a builder in Puran sector, was on his list. Sangwan reportedly offered to make necessary phone calls if Balyan assisted in recovering the money.
Balyan, who represents Uttam Nagar constituency in Delhi, previously served as the DDC chairman for south Delhi.
Gangster-Linked Violence:
Sangwan’s notoriety extends beyond extortion. He is a suspect in the assassination of Nafe Singh Rathi, head of the Haryana unit of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD). With a network of shooters recruited online, Sangwan has allegedly built a profitable extortion racket extending beyond India’s borders. Sangwan’s brother, Jyoti Baba, currently resides in Tihar Jail.
Sangwan’s rivalry with gangster Manjeet Mahal dates back to 2015 when Mahal allegedly played a role in the death of Sangwan’s brother-in-law. Sangwan responded with violence, sparking a decade-long feud punctuated by several murders.
The investigation into this complex and transnational extortion ring is ongoing. Balyan’s arrest has sent shockwaves throughout Delhi’s political landscape, raising concerns about the potential involvement of elected officials in organized crime.
## Delhi Lawmaker Arrested: A Closer Look at the Extortion Ring Allegations
The arrest of Naresh Balyan, a member of the Delhi legislative Assembly, on charges related to an alleged extortion ring has sent shockwaves through India’s political landscape. We spoke with Dr. Indira Sharma, a leading expert on organized crime in South Asia, to shed light on the complexities of this case and the implications for Indian politics.
**WTN:** Dr. Sharma, the allegations against Mr. Balyan are serious – involving an extortion ring with alleged ties to an international gang. What makes this case notably noteworthy?
**Dr.Sharma:** This case is significant for several reasons. Firstly, the alleged involvement of a sitting lawmaker in such an operation raises serious concerns about **corruption within the political system**. It erodes public trust and undermines the foundations of democracy. secondly, the connection to an international gang suggests a level of sophistication and association that is alarming.
**WTN:** Can you elaborate on the nature of these international gangs and their modus operandi in India?
**Dr. Sharma:** Often operating under the radar, these groups exploit vulnerabilities in various sectors, from **finance and real estate to construction and import-export**.They utilize a network of local contacts, offering financial incentives or threats to gain influence and control over business operations. Extortion becomes a tool to extract funds and maintain dominance.
**WTN:** What are the potential implications of this arrest for Delhi politics and the ongoing elections?
**Dr. Sharma:** This case has the potential to considerably impact the political climate. It could fuel public outrage and mistrust towards politicians, particularly those associated with Mr. Balyan’s party. Opposing parties may capitalize on this sentiment, seeking to exploit the scandal for political gain.
**WTN:** What steps can be taken to address the underlying issues that allow such criminal networks to thrive?
**Dr. Sharma:** Tackling this problem requires a multi-pronged approach. **Strengthening law enforcement agencies** and enhancing their capabilities to investigate and dismantle organized crime is crucial. Moreover, addressing issues like **financial transparency and regulatory loopholes** that facilitate money laundering and illegal activities is essential.
**WTN:** Dr. Sharma, what message do you think this case sends to the international community about India’s fight against organized crime?
**Dr. Sharma:** While this arrest may paint a grim picture, it also demonstrates India’s willingness to confront corruption and organized crime at all levels, even within its own political system. This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against these criminal networks and the efforts being made to uphold the rule of law.
**World-Today-News.com will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as they become available.**
