A BJP functionary in Coimbatore was arrested for impersonating a police officer and extorting Rs. 15,000 from a shop owner near Perur. The incident occurred 10 days ago, shocking local residents.
Coimbatore: In a shocking incident, a BJP functionary was arrested in Coimbatore for impersonating a police officer and extorting money from a local shopkeeper. The accused, identified as Perumal, allegedly posed as an Assistant Inspector from Perur and extorted Rs. 15,000 from a shop owner near a TASMAC outlet in Perur Padithurai area.
The incident occurred about 10 days ago when Perumal approached the victim, Vetrivel, claiming to be an Assistant Inspector. After taking the money, he forcibly took Vetrivel on his two-wheeler and dropped him off behind the Ukkadam Police Station before fleeing the scene.
Vetrivel recently filed a complaint at the Thondamuthur Police Station. Based on the complaint, the police registered a case and arrested Perumal, who resides near Perur.
During the investigation, it was revealed that Perumal was a former member of the Tamil Nadu Police force, having joined in 1997. However, he was dismissed from service in 2010 while working at the Podanur Police Station for involvement in gambling activities.
In a surprising twist, it was discovered that Perumal currently holds the position of Vice President in the BJP's Ex-Servicemen's Wing for the Coimbatore City District. This revelation has caused considerable concern among local residents and political circles.
The police are continuing their investigation into the matter, with further questioning of Perumal scheduled for July 10. Authorities are working to determine if there are any other similar incidents involving the accused and to uncover any potential accomplices.
This case has highlighted the need for stricter verification processes for political party functionaries and raised questions about the misuse of authority by individuals posing as law enforcement officers.