Navi Mumbai: Rabale Police have registered extortion cases against two self-proclaimed journalists and one social activist for allegedly threatening and extorting money from local businessmen in Navi Mumbai.
“The accused had created an atmosphere of fear across several areas, including Airoli, Digha, Ghansoli, Rabale, MIDC, and Koparkhairane, prompting us to initiate externment proceedings as well against them,” Rabale police said. The men have been identified as Suresh Mangroolkar, Sachin Kadam and social worker Trubhuvansingh Thakur.
The trio allegedly used the guise of journalism and activism to intimidate business owners and demand money under various pretexts. Their long-standing activities had instilled deep fear among the business community, which initially prevented victims from coming forward. However, after gaining confidence through police support, a few businessmen filed formal complaints, leading to the exposure of the racket.
Based on the complaints, Rabale Police registered criminal cases of extortion against the accused. A review of their criminal history and evidence collected further strengthened the case. Acting on this, the Rabale Police submitted a proposal to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zone I, seeking externment of the three individuals from the Navi Mumbai area.
A "Show Cause" notice regarding the proposed externment has since been issued to the accused. Confirming the development, Senior Police Inspector Balkrishna Sawant of Rabale Police Station stated that the action aims to ensure a safe environment for local businesses and to curb the misuse of media and activism as tools for intimidation and extortion.
