Call money racket claims a life in Vijayawada

Vijayawada: A- 32-year-old man committed suicide by jumping into a canal unable to bear harassment by the 'call money' racket here on Sunday.

The deceased was identified as Prem Kumar, who took the extreme step after sending a video recording to his family members.

In the video, he stated that Kasula Ranga Rao, Kola Kiran, Kola Rambabu and T Mahesh were responsible for his suicide. Prem had availed a loan of Rs four lakh from the four a year ago. But, they harassed him to pay Rs 16 lakh.

Though Prem lodged a complaint against the four people with Padamata police station, the police failed to take any action against them.

The death of Prem has sparked a protest from the relatives, family members and also friends demanding action against the four people. The Padamata police have come under criticism for their failure to protect Prem even though he had lodged a complaint.

Some locals who noticed Prem jumping into the canal, tried to save him but their efforts proved futile.

The money lending racket makes loans readily available on the basis of phone calls. The moneylender comes to the borrower's doorstep with the cash and a promissory note. The interest rates range between 90 and 150 percent. The lender, similarly, can ask for the money back over the phone at any time. If the borrower can't repay, life and property come under threat, said sources.