India, Sept. 23 -- City police have booked gang leader Suryakant alias Bandu Andekar and 11 others, including his family members and associates, for allegedly extorting more than Rs.20 crore from a city-based businessman over the past 12 years.

According to police, Andekar's gang threatened local businessmen and shopkeepers, particularly those operating in fish markets, and collected money under the guise of "protection."

A fresh case was registered at Faraskhana police station on Saturday against the 12 accused.

Explaining the modus operandi, officers said the gang created panic in the market by sending threatening messages and spreading fear among traders. The intimidation was part of an organised attempt to force traders into paying...