Three Arrested in Zirakpur Jeweller Abduction Linked to Fake CIA Ruse

The Zirakpur police have secured the arrest of three individuals in connection with the abduction of a 42‑year‑old jeweller from Panchkula. Gaurav Goyal, a resident of Sector 15, was taken on June 5 after a group pretending to be officials of a crime investigation agency stopped him, alleged that he had purchased stolen gold and claimed a criminal case had been filed against him. The impostors demanded a settlement of ₹10 lakh, and later extracted an additional ₹5 lakh from his family.

Goyal, who runs a small jewellery shop in Zirakpur, was seized while travelling to a client’s address. The abductors reportedly kept him confined for several hours before releasing him after the family complied with the initial demand. The subsequent extortion, police say, was carried out through phone calls and messages that threatened legal action unless the larger sum was paid.

The investigation, led by the Zirakpur police station, traced the suspects through a combination of CCTV footage from the area where the abduction occurred and mobile‑phone records that linked the callers to a local network. After a coordinated raid, three men were taken into custody. Authorities have not released the names of the arrested individuals, but confirmed that they are aged between 25 and 35 and have been charged under sections of the Indian Penal Code relating to kidnapping and extortion.

Senior officers said the case highlights a growing trend of fraudsters masquerading as law‑enforcement officials to extract money from unsuspecting citizens. “Such impersonation scams have been reported in other parts of the region, but this is the first instance where a jeweller was specifically targeted in this manner,” a police spokesperson said, adding that the department is reviewing its protocols for handling similar complaints.

Goyal’s family, who initially paid the ₹10 lakh demanded, later complied with the additional ₹5 lakh request after receiving threats of a fabricated criminal case that could affect his business reputation. The jeweller has since filed a formal complaint with the Zirakpur police, who are also examining whether any broader criminal gang is involved.

Local business owners have expressed concern over the incident, noting that the episode could deter potential clients from visiting the area if such scams are perceived as widespread. While the police have not disclosed any links to organized crime, they are treating the case seriously and have urged the public to verify the identity of any official who approaches them with urgent demands.

The arrests come amid a broader crackdown on fraudulent schemes that have surged in recent months across the Chandigarh‑Punjab border. Police officials have reiterated that anyone receiving a demand for money from a self‑styled investigation agency should immediately contact the nearest police station rather than comply on the spot.

In addition to the three individuals already detained, investigators are looking into possible accomplices who may have facilitated the abduction. The case is expected to be forwarded to the district attorney’s office for prosecution, and the police have indicated that further arrests cannot be ruled out as the inquiry progresses.

The incident serves as a reminder for residents and business owners alike to remain vigilant and to verify any official’s credentials before acting on financial demands. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and have appealed to the public for any additional information that could aid the investigation.

Source: Hindustan Times