CBI takes custody of journalist Upendra Rai in extortion, corruption case

The case pertains to alleged extortion of ₹15 crore from a builder in Mumbai

A file picture of Delhi-based journalist Upendra Rai (left) being produced in a CBI court in New Delhi.

The CBI has taken the custody of journalist Upendra Rai in connection with a fresh case of alleged extortion and corruption, an official said.

The case, registered on May 5, in which he has been arrested recently, pertains to alleged extortion of ₹15 crore from a builder in Mumbai.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) said one of the directors of Mumbai-based White Lion Real Estate Developers Pvt. Ltd., Balvinder Singh Malhotra, had filed a complaint with it against Mr. Rai.

The journalist was earlier arrested by the agency for allegedly getting an airport access pass using links with an aviation company in violation of rules. Later, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had also registered cases against him and arrested him.

Mr. Rai would be produced before a special CBI court on July 16 as his police remand comes to an end, an official said.