After seizing ₹14.8 crore demonetised currency from the residence of former city councillor V. Nagaraj, the police have reopened the rowdy-sheet against him. Only recently, Nagaraj — through a legal recourse — had got his name removed from the rowdy-sheet citing that he had been leading a normal and peaceful life for several years now.
The police said Nagaraj had got his name removed after getting an order from the High Court stating that he was not involved in anti-social activities.
Note exchange racket
However, the search on Friday was based on a complaint by Nagarabhavi-based realtor Umesh, who accused Nagaraj of abducting him and robbing old currency worth ₹50 lakh early this month. During the search, the police not only found the huge amount but also property documents belonging to many people. Inquiries revealed that Nagaraj was involved in illegal currency exchange racket since demonetisation and was accused of threatening and blackmailing realtors and businessmen to extort money.
“We suspect that Nagaraj is part of the illegal money exchange racket and the details of his network and source would be known only after his arrest,” a senior police officer said, confirming that the rowdy-sheet has been opened against him.
Meanwhile, four special teams have been formed to nab Nagaraj who is on the run. The police suspect that he could be hiding in Tamil Nadu where his network works well.
Cases against sons
The police have also booked cases against Gandhi and Shastry, Nagaraj’s sons, for their alleged role in illegal activities.
