Chennai: A head constable attached to the Tamil Nadu DGP’s office has been arrested for allegedly posing as a member of the newly formed Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) and attempting to extort ₹3.3 lakh from a businessman in north Chennai.
The accused has been identified as Ravivarman, 43, a resident of Kancheepuram district. He was posted in the computer section of the police headquarters.
Police Probe Uncovers Alleged Extortion Attempt
According to the police investigation, Ravivarman visited a plastic trading establishment in R.K. Nagar, Old Washermanpet, claiming that he had arrived to conduct a search based on information about contraband.
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During the search, he allegedly found boxes of gutkha, herbal medicines and ₹3.3 lakh in cash at the premises.
Police said the constable subsequently demanded money from the proprietor, Praveen Kumar, 44. When the businessman asked him to produce identification, an argument reportedly followed.
A neighbouring shopkeeper alerted the police, following which Ravivarman and Praveen Kumar were taken to Korukkupet police station for inquiry.
Businessman Allegedly Targeted Over Outstanding Payment
The investigation reportedly revealed that the alleged extortion attempt was linked to a separate financial dispute.
Police said another businessman, Keemaram, owed Praveen Kumar ₹6 lakh. Of this, ₹3 lakh had allegedly been sent to Praveen through an intermediary identified as Mangilal.
According to the police probe:
- Mangilal allegedly delivered the money to Praveen Kumar.
- Keemaram and Mangilal allegedly knew that cash was available with the businessman.
- Ravivarman was allegedly brought into the plan to threaten the businessman with a police case.
- The head constable allegedly used his position and the identity of an ANTF officer to facilitate the attempt to take the cash.
Police subsequently arrested Ravivarman and Mangilal in connection with the alleged extortion attempt.
The investigation is continuing to establish the role of the other persons allegedly involved in the conspiracy.
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