Self-styled YouTube reporter arrested in Shalibanda extortion case

A man who posed as a YouTube reporter and threatened people in the name of police influence was arrested by the Shalibanda police on Wednesday.

The accused was identified as Mohammed Bilal. He was arrested following a complaint that he demanded ₹35,000 from a "party" by falsely claiming that he could “manage” their case at the police station and prevent their arrest. According to the police, he threatened that failure to pay the amount would result in their immediate arrest and repeatedly intimidated the complainant using this claim.

Based on the evidence collected during the inquiry, the police booked an extortion case against Bilal and arrested him.

South Zone Deputy Commissioner of Police Kiran Khare said the police are noticing a growing trend where people are masquerading as reporters or media persons and indulging in illegal activities such as case settlement, extortion and the collection of (bribe). He made it clear that such practices would not be tolerated, and strict legal action would be taken against anyone found involved.

The DCP appealed to people to come forward if they have information about such illegal activities or if they are being threatened or extorted in the name of media influence. He assured that the police would ensure prompt action and extend protection to informants.

Further investigation is under way.