Ahmedabad: In a landmark judgment, an Ahmedabad court on Friday sentenced 14 individuals, including former IPS officer Jagdish Patel and ex-BJP MLA Nalin Kotadiya, to life imprisonment for their involvement in a 2018 bitcoin extortion and builder kidnapping case. The City Sessions Court’s ACB Special Court found all but one accused guilty in this high-profile conspiracy.
Kidnapping and Bitcoin Extortion
The case centers on the abduction of builder Shailesh Bhatt by a group that included several Gujarat police officers. The accused seized 200 bitcoins from Bhatt and demanded a ransom of Rs 32 crore. It was revealed during the investigation that Bhatt and his associates had earlier stolen bitcoins worth Rs 150 crore from Surat-based individual Dhawal Mawani. Learning this, the accused, including Nalin Kotadiya, conspired to rob Bhatt.
Corruption and Police Involvement
Former Amreli District Police Superintendent Jagdish Patel and other police officers, including Anant Patel, were deeply involved in orchestrating the scheme. The conspiracy also involved CBI Inspector Sunil Nair, who allegedly accepted Rs 5 crore in cash as part of the extortion plan. Supported by corrupt police officials, the group successfully extorted 200 bitcoins, valued at Rs 12 crore at the time.
Investigation and Trial
Following a formal complaint by Bhatt, the CID Crime Branch launched an extensive investigation that resulted in the arrest of 15 individuals, including Jagdish Patel and other police officers. The trial extensively examined evidence and testimonies, convicting 14 of the accused while acquitting Jatin Patel due to lack of evidence.
Justice Served
The court’s decision marks a significant victory against corruption and criminal activities involving cryptocurrencies and law enforcement officials. The sentencing of high-profile individuals underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding justice and accountability, irrespective of status.
