Early Times Report
Srinagar, Aug 24: Shopian Police claimed to have busted a gang of extortionists who were posing as militants in the area and looting the locals under threat of toy guns.
A top Police official (wishing anonymity) said: "During last few months, we were receiving inputs from agencies that some unknown "masked men" with the help of toy guns intrude into the houses in Hurpora, Kellar and its adjacent areas during the nights and harass inmates, only to demand money from them."
The official said it was unfortunate that no one from the area came forward to register a complaint in this regard. "But last week, we received a complaint from a local person complaining that unknown masked persons are threatening them to extend help for militant activities."
When contacted SHO, Hurpura, Showkat Ahmad said, "We have arrested all six persons involved in the gang who, by posing as militants were involved in extortion. "We have recovered Rs 25,000 cash, 3 toy-guns, goggles, masks, camouflage (army uniform), torches and large-sized knives from their possession."
The accused have been identified as Gulzar Ahmad Chowhan son of Mohd Shafi resident of Kraspathri Shopian, Shabir Ahmad Paswal son of Mir Hussain resident of Buhrehalan Shopian, Tariq Ahmad Khan son of Mohd Shafi resident of Pehlipora Keller, Riyaz Ahmad Awan son of Mohd Hussain Awan resident of Pehlipora Keller and Sajad Ahmad Mir son of Ghulam Mohd Mir resident of Bamnoo Keller and Abdul Hamid bani son of Ghulam Hassan Bani resident of checkh Shopian, the Police official added. |
