Delhi police have thwarted a ₹5 crore extortion‑murder scheme, arresting three suspects tied to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The detainees were allegedly using overseas mobile numbers and encrypted messaging apps to target businessmen across the NCR region.
Key Takeaways
- ₹5 crore extortion‑murder plot foiled
- Three suspects linked to Lawrence Bishnoi gang arrested
- Use of international numbers and encrypted apps for coordination
New Delhi – In a decisive blow against organized crime, Delhi Police announced the disruption of a sophisticated extortion‑murder conspiracy valued at ₹5 crore. The operation led to the arrest of three men believed to be operatives of the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang, one of whom was previously implicated in the 2024 killing of Greater Kailash gym owner Nadir Shah.
How the Plot Unfolded
The investigation began on 8 March after a Rohini businessman reported relentless WhatsApp calls and messages from foreign numbers demanding ₹1 crore and threatening death upon non‑payment. The initial caller identified himself as “Randeep Malik,” later re‑branding as “Harry Boxer” on 4 July, even sharing photographs and video clips of the victim’s residence.
Police Methodology and Seizures
Special Staff of Rohini District, under the supervision of senior officers from Zone‑I and the Northern Range, deployed a blend of technical surveillance, human intelligence, CCTV analysis, and digital forensics. Led by Inspectors Sandeep Godara and Amit Kumar, the team recovered three sophisticated illegal pistols—including a 9 mm and a Beretta—26 live cartridges, and a Hero Deluxe motorcycle, all allegedly buried near a drain in Rohini.
Profiles of the Arrested
The detainees—identified as Shiv Govind, Abhinav (alias Akash Singh), and Vivek—had been gathering reconnaissance material on businessmen’s homes and jewellery shops in Karol Bagh. Shiv Govind’s phone contained images and videos that were allegedly transmitted to overseas handlers via Signal and other encrypted platforms. Abhinav, who had previously faced charges in the 2024 Nadir Shah murder, was released from judicial custody on 29 May 2024 and subsequently re‑connected with senior gang members to recruit shooters from his village.
International Links and Future Outlook
Investigators also named Anil Pandit, believed to be residing in the United States, as the alleged supplier of the illegal firearms. Pandit is thought to have operated under the direction of “Harry Boxer,” who is suspected of managing the Lawrence Bishnoi network from abroad. According to police, the local module handled reconnaissance, weapon sourcing, and final attack planning, while foreign‑based operatives issued threats and approved targets.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Rohini) Shashank Jaiswal emphasized that the arrests are part of a broader effort to dismantle the nexus between local shooters and overseas handlers—a nexus increasingly reliant on encrypted apps and foreign numbers for extortion and murder planning. Ongoing investigations aim to trace the money trail, weapon supply chain, and communication links, with further arrests expected as the network’s full extent is uncovered.