Overview
- At least eight bullion and jewellery traders in Nagpur’s Sarafa Bazar received letters demanding Rs 10 lakh each, with the notes arriving by post and over hand delivery.
- The letters, which began circulating four to five days ago, warned of killing traders and their families and told recipients to display a specific slogan outside shops as a sign of compliance.
- Traders have spoken with DCP Rahul Madne’s team and are ready to file formal complaints while the All India Jewellery Association has reported the matter to the Maharashtra chief minister and local police.
- Police have launched an investigation at Tehsil Police Station, say no perpetrators have been identified or arrested, and officials suspect local criminals may be using the Lawrence Bishnoi name to intimidate merchants.
- The threats have heightened security and business concerns ahead of Diwali and the wedding season, and associations are urging members to stay vigilant, report messages, and tighten shop safety.