Authorities in Jharkhand’s Khunti district are investigating an alarming incident where suspected members of the banned People’s Liberation Front of India (PLFI) resorted to gunfire and extortion. The extremists targeted a stone crusher unit, demanding a ransom of Rs 20 lakh.
The incident occurred on Wednesday night in the Dugdugiya area, within the Sadar police station’s limits. Reports indicate that four armed PLFI operatives arrived at the stone crushing facility, fired multiple shots to intimidate the staff, and subsequently presented a written demand for Rs 20 lakh. The letter warned of severe retaliation if the extortion money was not paid within the specified timeframe.
This threat was reportedly issued in the name of Rajesh Yadav, a known zonal member of the PLFI. Upon receiving intelligence, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Varun Rajak, accompanied by Sadar police station in-charge Mohan Kumar and armed officers, promptly reached the location. An in-depth examination of the crime scene was conducted, and statements from the employees who witnessed the event were recorded.
Police are actively pursuing leads and have initiated search operations in the vicinity to apprehend the individuals responsible. This incident is considered particularly concerning given a recent joint declaration by the PLFI and the Bharatiya Jan Mukti Morcha on December 21, which outlined plans for increased regional activity and the appointment of Rajesh Yadav to a key zonal position in Khunti.
The renewed activity by extremist elements has instilled a sense of fear among the local populace, including those working in stone crushers and local businesses, as they grapple with the potential return of widespread extortion in the area.