Criminal gangs terrorise Hyderabad businessmen transporting cash

Hyderabad: Fear has gripped city businessmen transporting cash due to the repeated incidents of robbery and extortion by gangs consisting of cops. In the three cases reported in the last 10 days five police officials were involved.  

Traders ask how they can distinguish between a bonafide police search and a fake one when real cops are involved in robbery. Senior cops say the victims can contact the control room and find out.

The vast majority of traders use cash for transactions since they are not accustomed to Internet banking, and as it is not possible to do transactions in banks nowadays. The transaction system of small traders is based on cash and not on electronic transfer, and it will take time to change, the traders say.

“It is now impossible to transfer money via a bank due to the crowds. I do not know how to do an online transfer. So, it is a must for me to transact in cash. Now I am afraid to move with cash as many gangs including that of cops are waiting to rob,” said N. Asokh Kumar, a trader of Begum Bazaar.

Traders say it is not easy to distinguish between cops and criminals when they are stopped for vehicle checking.  In the three cases of extortion, the constables and home guards had pretended to be members of the commissioner's task force. There is also a widespread impression that task force officials do not have to wear uniforms. However, senior officials say it is a must for cops to be in uniform at the time of frisking or vehicle checking.  “Any person who doubts a check, can contact Dial 100 and verify it instantly. If it is not bonafide, the victim can seek help,” said an officer.