7 transgenders held in Jubilee Hills: Here's how extortion gangs disrupt private events, extort money

Hyderabad: Seven transgender individuals were apprehended for extorting money and causing a nuisance at a housewarming function in the upscale Nandagiri Hills locality. The arrests were made by the Commissioner’s Task Force, West Zone Team, in collaboration with Jubilee Hills Police following credible information about the gang’s activities.

The accused were identified as Puppy (46), a resident of Boyaguda; Kushi Chauhan (27), a resident of Madhapur; Mohini (30) from Madhapur, Anni (29) from Madhapur, Anjali (37) from Yousufguda, Stella Roy (40), a resident of Sanath Nagar and Sai Pallavi (26) from Yousufguda.

Police stated that the gang had entered the function and demanded money from the host. When the host refused, they resorted to a public disturbance. A case has been registered at the Jubilee Hills Police Station and further investigation is underway.

#Hyderabad- 7 Transgenders arrested for extortion and causing nuisance during house warming function. A case has been registered in Jubilee Hill Police Station.

If you are being harassed or a witness to nuisance caused by transgenders during ceremonies, pls report to cops. pic.twitter.com/JC3sUZ2DBc

— @Coreena Enet Suares (@CoreenaSuares2) November 26, 2024

Modus operandi of extortion gangs

Eyewitness accounts and residents’ reports reveal a systematic approach by such groups to extort money. These gangs reportedly collect information about private events through informants, such as auto drivers and tent house operators.

Targeted Events: Common targets include housewarming functions, shop inaugurations, weddings, birthdays and other celebrations.

Methods of extortion: They arrive uninvited, demand exorbitant sums (up to Rs 1 lakh), and threaten to strip, brawl or create a scene if their demands are not met.

Signature Mark: After receiving payment, the gang leader’s name and signature are often left on a wall as a mark of their presence.

Despite police intervention in some cases, the gangs reportedly continue to operate with impunity.

Reports of harassment and public nuisance

Several incidents highlight the aggressive tactics used by these groups:

Sainikpuri Housewarming Function: A host reported that two individuals claiming to be hijras demanded Rs 51,000. When negotiations failed, they urinated in the corridors. “We had to pay Rs 25,000 just to make them leave,” said Ann Sunil, the host.

Dance School Opening in Malkajgiri: Hijra gang members demanded a large sum and started stripping when refused. “It was terrifying. My students, some as young as five years old, had to hide under tables,” said owner Smitha Agarwal.

Incident Near ORR: A group harassed and extorted money from passersby near Hyderabad House restaurant. When questioned, they allegedly assaulted a concerned individual.

Midnight raid in Kondapur

In another case, residents in Kondapur reported a gang of 20-30 members extorting Rs 30,000 during a midnight raid on a private property. Social media posts by the affected individuals highlighted the lack of immediate police action and called for intervention.

Residents demand action

Frustrated residents expressed dismay over the repeated incidents and perceived lack of stringent action by law enforcement. A concerned citizen stated, “The lack of response from authorities is disheartening. We need their support to put an end to this menace.”

The Task Force has assured residents of increased vigilance and swift action against such activities.