Mumbai, Maharashtra: A Mumbai-based food and travel influencer with nearly four lakh followers has been arrested by the Mumbai Crime Branch for allegedly attempting to extort money from a dairy shop owner by threatening to damage his business through viral social media content.
The accused, identified as Randeep Gujral (40), allegedly posted an Instagram reel claiming that a worm had been found in paneer purchased from a dairy shop in Mumbai’s Mulund area. The video quickly gained traction online, raising concerns among customers and affecting the shop’s reputation.
According to investigators, Gujral later allegedly demanded ₹2 lakh from the dairy owner and threatened to publish more negative content if his demands were not met. Police claim the reel was fabricated and intended to pressure the businessman into paying money.
The case came to light after the dairy owner approached police and filed a complaint. An FIR was registered at Mulund Police Station, following which the investigation was handed over to the Crime Branch.
Police then allegedly laid a trap to catch the accused. Investigators instructed the complainant to inform Gujral that he would transfer ₹50,000 through UPI and hand over the remaining amount in cash during a scheduled meeting.
According to officials, the operation was successful. “As the accused was taking the money from the victim, we caught him red-handed and placed him under arrest,” a senior Crime Branch officer reportedly said.
Investigators also examined CCTV footage from the dairy shop and surrounding areas. During the probe, police allegedly found evidence suggesting that the influencer and his associates may have used similar tactics against other businesses. Authorities are now exploring whether this was an isolated incident or part of a larger extortion racket targeting local establishments through social media pressure.
The case has sparked debate over the growing influence of content creators and the potential misuse of social media platforms. Experts say online reviews and influencer content can significantly impact small businesses, making them vulnerable to reputational threats.
