Lucknow– A video showing notorious criminal Arif Ali making threats and demanding extortion over a video call while sitting at the Amberganj police outpost has sparked outrage. The video, which went viral after being posted by the victim, Sameer, shows Arif issuing threats in the presence of Ashish Baliyan, the in-charge of the Amberganj outpost under the Saadatganj police station. The footage has raised serious concerns about police complicity and corruption in the area.
The Viral Incident
In the viral video, Arif Ali is seen intimidating Sameer, displaying his connections with local authorities by flaunting a photo of an inspector and hurling abuses. Shockingly, the incident occurred while Arif was seated inside the police post, under the supervision of the outpost in-charge, Baliyan. This blatant show of power has exposed what many in Old Lucknow have long suspected—criminals, with the backing of certain police officials, continue to operate freely, extorting money and threatening innocents.
Following the video’s circulation, the police swiftly contacted Sameer, asking him to file an application to downplay the situation and claiming that Arif had already been arrested. Sameer was reportedly pressured to support the police’s narrative to save their “honor.” However, the video clearly shows Arif’s intimidating presence inside the police post, contradicting the police’s claim that Arif had simply submitted an application.
Police’s Troubling History
This incident is just the latest in a series of similar cases in the Old Lucknow West area, where local police have been accused of using informants to extort money and implicate innocent people in false cases. Arif Ali, who has a history of criminal activities and multiple cases filed against him, is believed to be one of these henchmen. In previous instances, Arif and his associates have attacked Sameer’s home, with videos of these attacks circulating online as well. Rather than take concrete action, the police reportedly filed minor charges under Section 107/16 against both the victim and the accused in an attempt to brush the incident under the rug.
The Role of Police Informants
Another key figure in this ongoing scandal is Bablu, a well-known informer for the police. Multiple complaints have been filed against him for threatening individuals from the safety of police outposts. Despite repeated reports to senior officials, no significant action has been taken, further deepening public distrust of local law enforcement.
A Systemic Issue
Residents of Old Lucknow have grown increasingly frustrated with these recurring incidents of police involvement in extortion and intimidation. The latest video underscores how some officers misuse their power, providing criminals like Arif Ali with a platform to terrorize victims.
As the public awaits a response, the viral video continues to circulate, leaving many to wonder about the true extent of corruption in the local police force and whether justice will be served in this case.
