Belagavi police have arrested three men- Sameer Nisar Ahmed Sheikh, Abdul Rashid Makandar and Mohammed Balekundri accused of posing as journalists, planting hidden cameras in a woman government officer’s residence, recording intimate footage and demanding Rs 50 lakh in extortion threats.

In a disturbing case of invasion of privacy and extortion, authorities in Belagavi district arrested three men allegedly posing as journalists who secretly installed miniature hidden cameras inside the home of a female government officer and later used the footage to extort money from her.

Police said the devices were concealed inside everyday objects such as bulb holders and were used to capture the officer’s private moments, which the accused then threatened to publish on social media and news platforms if their demands were not met.

Investigators have revealed that the suspects gained access to the woman’s residence in her absence with help from a housekeeper, who is currently being sought by police.

Over approximately two months, the suspects are believed to have monitored the officer’s movements, repeatedly ring her with threats and pressure her to pay a ransom of Rs 50 lakh to keep the recorded material from becoming public.

Police Commissioner Bhushan Gulabrao Borase told reporters that the complaint was lodged at the Malmaruti police station after repeated harassment. An FIR was registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act, and a sting operation led to the arrest of the three accused.

Seizure of Devices and Ongoing Investigation

Upon arrest, law enforcement officials seized several incriminating items, including multiple mobile phones (two Samsung Ultra devices and a Vivo phone), six hidden cameras, a 64 GB pen drive, two OTG devices, eight 128 GB memory cards and an Innova Crysta vehicle allegedly used by the suspects. These items were taken into custody as evidence as part of the ongoing probe.

Authorities are analysing the seized digital equipment to ascertain how long the surveillance had continued and whether other individuals were involved. Police have not ruled out the possibility of a wider extortion racket or additional accomplices beyond the trio presently in custody.

City Police Commissioner Borase also highlighted the sophisticated nature of the surveillance tactics employed by the accused and emphasised that such crimes are not only violations of privacy but also serious offences under cyber and extortion laws.

He urged citizens to be vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity, particularly involving unauthorised access or unexplained devices in private spaces.

Broader Context and Public Reaction in Belagavi

The shocking revelations have triggered widespread concern in the community, with many expressing outrage over the alleged abuse of trust, misuse of technology and threat to personal privacy.

Journalists and civil society voices in Belagavi have condemned the impersonation of media professionals, a tactic that undermines public confidence in legitimate journalism, and have demanded strict legal action against all involved.

Police officials and legal experts have pointed out that the case underscores broader challenges in combating cyber-enabled crimes and protecting individuals particularly women-from digital exploitation and coercion.

This incident follows growing concerns nationally about the misuse of recording devices and impersonation for extortion, prompting authorities in other regions to issue advisories and heighten vigilance.

Meanwhile, the woman officer at the centre of the case has been offered police protection and counselling services, given the prolonged harassment she faced and the potential for reputational harm.

Investigators continue to interview witnesses and pursue leads related to the housekeeper and other possible associates who might have facilitated access or helped in the operation.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

This case lays bare some of the harshest realities of the digital age, where advances in technology that can enrich lives are also harnessed to violate trust and dignity.

The alleged exploitation of a public servant’s personal life for monetary gain is not just a criminal offence, but a troubling erosion of safety and privacy.

It is a stark reminder that ethical journalism and respect for individual rights are pillars of a democratic society and must be fiercely protected