Kadapa: Fake Mumbai-based RTI activist held for blackmailing, demanding ₹10 Cr from Eluru MP Mahesh, Mydukur MLA Sudhakar
The accused has been identified as Rushant Jayakumar Wadke, a resident of Mumbai
By - Newsmeter Network
Eluru MP Putta Mahesh (File Photo)
Kadapa: Police have arrested a fake Mumbai-based RTI activist for allegedly threatening, blackmailing, and demanding Rs 10 crore from Eluru MP Putta Mahesh and his father, Sudhakar Yadav, who is an MLA from Mydukur.
The accused has been identified as Rushant Jayakumar Wadke, a resident of Mumbai.
Threats through emails and calls
According to police, Wadke falsely claimed to be an RTI activist and sent a series of threatening emails to the MP, warning that he would expose alleged details of their assets unless he was paid Rs 10 crore.
He reportedly threatened to escalate the issue to central investigating agencies if his demand was not met. The MP and the MLA also received repeated phone calls, adding to the pressure.
Extortion attempt in Mydukur
Amid the continuous threats, the accused was directed to meet Adi, the personal assistant to MLA Sudhakar Yadav, for discussions. Police said that when Wadke reached Mydukur, he allegedly threatened Adi with a knife and fled after robbing him of Rs 70,000. Following a complaint, a case was registered and an investigation launched.
Arrest in Mumbai, remand ordered
With assistance from Maharashtra Police, Kadapa district police traced and arrested Wadke in South Mumbai. He was brought to Kadapa, produced before a court, and remanded to judicial custody. He has since been lodged in the Kadapa Central Jail.
Fake RTI claim, more people under scanner
Investigators revealed that the accused was not an RTI activist, contrary to his claims. Police believe he used asset declarations filed during election nominations as the basis for his threats. Preliminary investigation has also indicated the involvement of two more individuals, and efforts are underway to trace and arrest them.
Case comes to light late
Police noted that while the incident occurred earlier, details emerged only recently as the investigation progressed. Further probe is on to uncover the full extent of the extortion network and its possible links.
