Man Arrested for Posing as BJP MLA's PA, Extorting Money from Inmates' Relatives

A man was arrested in Mumbai for posing as the PA of BJP MLA Ashish Shelar and allegedly extorting money from inmates' relatives. He obtained information from lawyers and promised state government aid. The investigation is ongoing.

Police have apprehended a man in Mumbai for allegedly deceiving relatives of jailed inmates by pretending to be the personal assistant of BJP MLA Ashish Shelar and extorting money by promising state aid, according to Bandra Police on Monday. The accused, Amin Irfan Bendrekar, reportedly contacted lawyers to gather information about various clients, claiming affiliation with the BJP MLA.

Authorities revealed that the 24-year-old suspect imitated the voice of Shelar's PA and introduced himself as 'Sharma' to the lawyers and inmates' relatives. Further investigation showed he also mimicked the MLA's voice. Bendrekar, from Nala Sopara in Palghar district, has several cases registered against him in Mumbai police stations. He allegedly convinced lawyers and families that the money would be refunded upon government approval to release prisoners and extorted funds for various reasons, including purported medical expenses for inmates.

Following a complaint, Bandra police tracked and detained the accused, who is currently being interrogated as the investigation continues. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)