NEW DELHI: Delhi-based singer Mohd Asif, popularly known by his stage name Bismil, has allegedly received extortion threats from unidentified individuals who contacted him through international phone numbers. Following the complaint, the Delhi Police Special Cell registered an FIR and launched an investigation.According to the FIR, the threats began on April 20 when the singer’s manager, Vibhor Hasija, received a call from a Portugal-based phone number demanding Rs 5 crore in extortion.Police said another threatening call, along with several voice messages, was received on April 23 from a different international number. During the calls, the caller allegedly identified himself as gangster Deepak Nandal and continued issuing extortion threats.The complaint states that the matter was initially reported to the Haryana Police, which subsequently registered an FIR.The threats allegedly escalated on May 13, when Bismil himself received a phone call warning him to convince his manager to pay the extortion money or face serious consequences. The caller allegedly threatened to open fire during the singer’s live performances if the demand was not met.Police said the singer also received threatening WhatsApp voice messages from a UK-based number. Fearing for his safety, Bismil subsequently switched off his phone.Acting on a complaint received on May 29, the Delhi Police Special Cell registered an FIR under Sections 308(5) and 351(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).Police are now investigating the origin of the international calls, identifying those responsible for the threats, and examining whether the extortion attempt is linked to an organised criminal network.(With agency inputs)
