Mumbai Police have arrested a 40-year-old woman accused of extorting nearly ₹4 crore from a jeweller using video recordings.
How Did the Alleged Extortion Begin?
The Mumbai Crime Branch’s Unit 7 arrested Naznin Mehmood, a resident of VP Road in south Mumbai, following a complaint from a 61-year-old jewellery shop owner. According to police, the accused became acquainted with the complainant during visits to the jewellery shop where he worked. They exchanged mobile numbers and remained in contact.
The complainant alleged that Mehmood subsequently recorded video calls and used the recordings to threaten him with public exposure. The recordings allegedly showed the complainant watching the woman while she undressed or bathed.
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How Was ₹4 Crore Allegedly Collected?
Police said the alleged extortion continued between February 2025 and August 2026. During this period, the complainant claimed to have paid approximately ₹4 crore through cash payments and online transactions.
Mehmood allegedly told him that the recordings had reached Chennai Police and other authorities. She initially demanded money to settle the purported matter with police and prevent the recordings from circulating. Later, she allegedly claimed that payments were required for court officials, senior police officers and other authorities to ensure the recordings were deleted. The complainant told investigators that he raised money by selling gold and making payments in instalments.
What Led to the Arrest?
Despite the alleged payment of nearly ₹4 crore, the woman reportedly demanded another ₹15 lakh. According to the complaint, she threatened to visit the jeweller’s residence and workplace and circulate the recordings online unless he paid by October 18. The complainant also alleged that she threatened to break his hands and legs and kill him if he failed to meet her demands. Following his complaint, Crime Branch officers laid a trap and arrested Mehmood.
What Are Police Investigating?
Investigators are examining how the alleged extortion proceeds were collected and where the money was transferred. Police are also verifying the complainant’s claim that he paid approximately ₹4 crore over several months, including through online transactions. The investigation includes determining whether other individuals assisted the accused in collecting money or making threats.
Authorities are additionally examining whether the recordings were ever shared with Chennai Police or other officials, as allegedly claimed by Mehmood.
The420 Insight: The case highlights how private video recordings and claims of police involvement can allegedly be used to pressure victims into repeated payments. Investigators have yet to establish the complete money trail, verify the total amount paid or determine whether others were involved.
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