Malda Police arrests man for threatening TMC leader; ‘D Company’ link under probe

Malda Police have arrested a man accused of threatening Englishbazar Municipality Chairman and former state minister Krishnendu Narayan Choudhury with death over a phone call. The accused allegedly demanded ₹20 lakh, claiming to be associated with the underworld group ‘D Company.’ Choudhury initially received multiple extortion messages, which he overlooked, before getting a direct call where the caller allegedly stated, “Send 20 peti or you and your family will be shot.” Following his complaint at Englishbazar police station, authorities launched an investigation, tracing the origin of the threat.

Police officials, working with the cybercrime unit, analyzed the call records and digital trails to identify the suspect. Investigators are determining whether the number used was masked or linked to known criminal networks. A leaked audio recording of the call has surfaced but remains unverified by law enforcement. Security around Choudhury was heightened after the incident, and police are examining potential motives behind the extortion attempt, including political, financial, or personal reasons. Officials are also investigating if similar threats have been issued to others in the region.

The arrest followed an ultimatum from Trinamool Congress leaders in Malda, who had warned of “major action” if the accused was not caught immediately. Authorities are now questioning the suspect to establish any possible connections to organized crime. Further details on the case are expected as the investigation continues, and police have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward.