Kolkata: A businessman operating a cafe and lounge in Beckbagan a filed a petition seeking police intervention before the cops lodged an FIR after allegedly being subjected to threats, extortion demands, and physical assault by a group of individuals demanding Rs 20 lakh as extortion money from him.
According to the complaint, the accused are described as "dangerous and desperate individuals who have been obstructing the peaceful operation of the cafe". The businessman alleged that on Sept 27, the accused trespassed into his café armed with deadly weapons, including a bujhali, chaapar, iron rods, bamboo sticks, and hockey sticks. A month later, during the second intrusion, they allegedly abused the petitioner and his family using offensive language and reiterated their demand for the extortion money.
The situation escalated when the petitioner attempted to resist, leading to a violent assault in Oct. The businessman claims he was beaten mercilessly, resulting in severe injuries to his head and other parts of his body. The commotion attracted the attention of neighbours, prompting the accused to flee the scene. However, before leaving, they allegedly snatched a gold neck chain from the petitioner and issued further threats, warning him against filing a complaint.
The harassment reportedly continued on Oct 15 when the accused once again threatened the petitioner and demanded the extortion amount, warning of dire consequences if their demands were not met. The businessman and his family are said to be living in fear, with their lives and property at risk.
IFollowing a court order, the FIR was finally registered by Karaya in Dec.