Pune: The Pimpri Chinchwad crime branch on Tuesday arrested a history-sheeter on charges of extorting Rs 3 lakh from the owner of a private security agency after laying a trap at Dighi on Alandi-Pune Road.A crime branch team led by senior police inspector Rajendra Patil apprehended Mahesh Shirole (28) when he arrived at the designated spot to collect the extortion money. He was taken into custody without incident.According to an officer from the Pimpri Chinchwad crime branch, the complainant operates a private security agency in the Pimpri Chinchwad area. Between June 25 and 29, Shirole allegedly made repeated calls to the complainant and the agency’s supervisor, demanding Rs 31 lakh in extortion.“He initially demanded Rs 10 lakh and gradually reduced the amount to Rs 8 lakh, Rs 7 lakh and finally Rs 6 lakh. He also threatened them with serious consequences and warned that he would shut down their business if they failed to pay,” the officer said.The complainant later agreed to pay Rs 3 lakh, prompting the police to lay a trap and arrest Shirole. “e has been handed over to the Dighi police for further investigation,” the officer added.
