Prisoner charged in extortion ring

The Anti-Extortion Unit has dismantled an extortion ring that has been operating within several business communities across the country, as another person – from within the prison – has been charged.

A release from the police said Justin Mohammed also known as Ashton Viaruel, an inmate at the Eastern Correctional Rehabilitation Centre (ECRC) was charged with five counts of demanding money by menace and one count of robbery with aggravation on March 17.

This comes after Sabrina Kalleecharran was arrested and charged for the same offences in January. Police said Mohammed and Kalleecharran will appear jointly before the courts to answer to the charges.

The release said the operation utilised the assistance of several intelligence units like the Cyber and Social Media Unit (CSMU), the Strategic Services Agencies (SSA) and other law enforcement agencies.

The collaborations led to searches at the Carrera Prison, the Maximum Security Prison (MSP) and the ECRC, where several electronic devices linked to the extortion ring were seized.

"The electronic devices provided crucial leads for investigators," the release said.

The police said other successes also came out of those searches.

"Two $10 bills, copper wiring, brown-coloured wire with plastic insulation, a lighter, a charging port for a cellular phone and one improvised weapon were also found."

The release said a 33-year-old inmate on remand for murder is expected to be charged by prison officials for the possession of unauthorised/prohibited articles.

Head of the Anti-Extortion Unit, Assistant Commissioner of Police Richard Smith, said the operation's success shows the dedication and effort by the unit to combat criminal enterprises.

Acting Commissioner of Police, Junior Benjamin also gave high praise to the unit and others involved in the investigation.

"By conducting Operation Extortion Eradicator, the Anti-Extortion Unit and by extension, the police, have not only safeguarded business owners by restoring public trust and confidence, but strengthening community engagement and building effective stakeholder partnerships.

"It also sent a clear message to criminals that such acts will be dealt with severely and without hesitation."