Digital News Guru Uttar Pradesh Desk:
In a significant breakthrough, the Uttar Pradesh Police have apprehended Lavi Pal, also known as Rahul Saini, the alleged mastermind behind the abductions of actor Mushtaq Khan and comedian Sunil Pal. The arrest occurred following an encounter in Bijnor on the night of December 22-23, during which Pal sustained a leg injury.
Bijnor Encounter: Details of the Arrest
Acting on a tip-off, Bijnor police located Pal in a farm on Mandawar Road. Upon attempting to apprehend him, Pal opened fire, hitting the bulletproof vest of Station House Officer Uday Pratap Singh. In the ensuing exchange, Pal was shot in the leg and subsequently arrested.
His accomplice, identified as his cousin Shubham, managed to escape. Authorities recovered a country-made pistol, two cartridges, and Rs 35,050 in cash, believed to be part of the ransom extorted during Mushtaq Khan’s abduction.
Background of the Kidnappings
- Mushtaq Khan: On November 20, 2024, Khan was lured to Meerut under the pretense of attending an award show. Upon arrival in Delhi, he was abducted and taken to a house in Bijnor, where he was confined and tortured for 12 hours. Khan managed to escape the following day by seeking refuge in a nearby mosque. Initially hesitant to report the incident, he filed a complaint after learning of a similar incident involving Sunil Pal.
- Sunil Pal: On December 2, 2024, Pal was invited to an event in Haridwar but was abducted en route. The kidnappers demanded a ransom of Rs 20 lakh but later settled for Rs 7.5 lakh, released him after 24 hours on the Delhi-Meerut road, providing Rs 20,000 for his return home.
Gang’s Modus Operandi and Other Targets
Investigations revealed that the gang, led by Pal, targeted celebrities by inviting them to fictitious events, offering advance payments and travel arrangements to gain their trust. Once the victims arrived, they were abducted and held for ransom. The gang also attempted to target other actors, including Shakti Kapoor and Rajesh Puri, but these attempts were unsuccessful.
Current Status of the Investigation
With Pal’s arrest, a total of seven gang members have been apprehended, while three remain at large. The police are continuing efforts to locate and arrest the remaining suspects. The successful apprehension of Pal is expected to provide further insights into the gang’s operations and assist in preventing future incidents targeting public figures.
Public and Industry Reaction
The entertainment industry has expressed relief over the arrest, with many calling for increased security measures for artists. The incidents have highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by public figures and the need for vigilance when accepting invitations to events.
Conclusion
The arrest of Lavi Pal marks a significant step in dismantling a criminal network targeting celebrities in India. The Uttar Pradesh Police’s swift action has not only brought the perpetrators to justice but also underscored the importance of inter-state coordination in tackling organized crime. As the investigation continues, it is hoped that all involved will be apprehended, ensuring the safety and security of public figures in the country.
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