According to the complaint, the accused allegedly approached the businessman and claimed that he had violated civic rules by smoking inside a rickshaw. They reportedly presented themselves as BMC personnel and used the threat of official action to create pressure on him. The victim was allegedly told that he could face consequences if the matter was not settled. Taking advantage of the situation, the suspects reportedly demanded money from him. The businessman eventually handed over ₹19,500, according to the complaint.

However, the incident later raised suspicion, and the businessman approached the police. Based on the information provided by him, officers began investigating the identities of the three men and the circumstances under which the money was allegedly collected. Police subsequently traced and arrested the three suspects. Investigators are now trying to establish whether the men had deliberately targeted the businessman or whether the incident was part of a wider pattern of similar alleged extortion attempts. The police are also examining whether the accused had previously approached other motorists, rickshaw users or business owners while claiming to be civic officials.

Any additional complaints could help investigators determine whether more people may have been targeted using the same method. The case highlights how impersonating government officials can be used to frighten people into making payments. Authorities have repeatedly advised citizens to verify the identity and credentials of anyone claiming to be a government or civic officer, particularly when money is being demanded on the spot. The three accused are now facing legal proceedings, while the police investigation continues. Officers are expected to examine the evidence collected in the case and question the suspects to determine the exact sequence of events and whether anyone else was involved.