Lucknow: In a shocking case involving an alleged land-grabbing conspiracy, police in Lucknow have arrested two accused for kidnapping a man, filming objectionable videos, and using them to blackmail him into transferring property.
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Amit Kumar Anand, the case was registered on May 1, 2026, following a complaint by Rita Saini, a resident of Moharikalan under Gosainganj police station limits. She alleged that a group linked to the property business abducted her husband, Hariom Shiv Vanmali, drugged him, and recorded objectionable videos to coerce him into handing over his land.
Arrests and Recovery
Acting on the complaint, a special police team was formed to investigate the case. Based on evidence gathered during the probe, police conducted a raid at Saryu Apartment in the Sushant Golf City area and arrested the main accused, Sunil Shukla and his associate Akanksha Pandey.
Police also recovered the vehicle used in the crime—a black Toyota Fortuner—while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other suspects involved in the conspiracy.
Modus Operandi
During interrogation, the accused revealed that they were involved in a plotting business under the name “Shubh Mangalam Infra” and had been trying to acquire the victim’s land. When negotiations failed, they allegedly conspired with two others—identified as Raju and Narendra—to execute the plan.
On April 28, the victim was allegedly lured into a car on the pretext of a meeting, given alcohol mixed with intoxicants, and rendered unconscious. He was then taken to a guest house where the videos were recorded, which were later intended to be used for blackmail.
Victim’s Family Action Exposes Plot
The plan unraveled after the victim’s wife approached the police and lodged a complaint, leading to swift कार्रवाई (action) by law enforcement authorities.
Search for Other Accused Continues
Police have identified two additional suspects—Raju and Narendra Kumar—who are currently absconding. Raids are being conducted to trace and arrest them.
Officials also confirmed that Sunil Shukla has a prior criminal record with multiple cases registered against him.
Investigation Ongoing
The arrested accused are being produced before the court, and further investigation is underway to uncover the full extent of the network and any additional involvement.
Police said strict action will be taken against all those involved, reiterating their commitment to cracking down on organised crime and protecting citizens from such serious offences.
