International WhatsApp Call Used to Demand Ransom, Police Launch Probe

The Bambiha gang appears to be actively operating in Chandigarh, with three major incidents reported over the past three days, all linked to gangster Lucky Patial. Following the firing on SOPU leader Jashandeep at Panjab University and the हत्या of property dealer Chamanpreet in Sector 9, a fresh case of extortion has now come to light. In the latest incident, a salon owner in Sector 9 has received a ransom demand of ₹1 crore. According to a complaint registered at Sector 34 police station, the victim stated that he received a WhatsApp call from an unknown international number at around 6:43 pm on Wednesday. The caller identified himself as gangster Lucky Patial and claimed to have detailed knowledge of the salon owner’s business. The accused demanded ₹1 crore and threatened to harm the victim’s family if the money was not paid. When the salon owner expressed his inability to arrange such a large amount, the caller instructed him to pay ₹50 lakh immediately and the remaining ₹50 lakh later. The caller also warned of serious consequences in case of non-compliance. Upon receiving information about the incident, a team from the DSP South office along with officials from Sector 34 police station reached the spot and initiated an investigation. Police are working to identify the accused based on the international phone number and call details. The cyber cell is also examining the origin of the number. Officials stated that the matter is being treated with seriousness and appropriate action will be taken once the accused is identified.