The West Bengal government has launched a major crackdown on an illegal extortion racket operating along National Highway-12 in North Bengal. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said five people have been arrested and three police personnel have been suspended in connection with the case.
Mr Adhikari in a social media post, said, an organised group was allegedly collecting 500 rupees illegally from truck drivers at Dalkhola and Chopra along NH-12, with the support of a few police personnel. The Chief Minister said, following reports and specific intelligence regarding the ring, he directed the police to take immediate action, leading to the arrests and suspensions.
The Chief Minister further stated that he has also directed all Superintendents of Police across the state to strengthen surveillance on national highways and ensure that such incidents do not recur. He reiterated, state government’s zero-tolerance policy against corruption and said strict legal action will be taken against anyone found involved in illegal extortion or corrupt practices.
