Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): An alleged criminal network operated by the infamous Machhli family in Bhopal has been exposed following the arrest of DJ Yaseen, Sharik Machhli, and an accomplice Jagga. The crime branch investigation has uncovered shocking evidence linking the gang to drug trafficking, sexual exploitation, illegal land grabs, and even possible terror connections.
The breakthrough came during the probe into an MD drug trafficking case. After seizing Yaseen's mobile phone, authorities discovered more than 100 objectionable and explicit videos including clips showing intoxicated young women being sexually exploited.
According to officials, the videos were filmed by gang members and used to threaten and manipulate victims. Several women have been identified and police are recording their statements. Separate FIRs are being filed based on their complaints.
In addition to the sexual exploitation, a large-scale land grabbing racket has also come to light. Acting on the crime branch’s recommendation, the district administration has launched a probe into properties owned by Yaseen and his uncle Sharik.
The DCP, crime, Akhil Patel confirmed that the scope of the investigation is expanding. The team is working to identify more gang members based on contacts found in the seized phones. Investigations are also underway to uncover the full extent of the illegal weapons network associated with the group.
So far, 15 additional arrests have been made and authorities anticipate more breakthroughs soon.
Allegations of land grab worth over ₹100 cr
Preliminary findings suggest that the duo illegally occupied government and private land worth over ₹100 crore across various parts of Bhopal. Investigation teams have been deployed in tehsils of Bhopal to verify the claims.
Assault, robbery case registered
Trouble mounted for the gang when a 25-year-old resident of Koh-e-Fiza filed a case against Yaseen for assault and robbery. The victim claimed Yaseen attacked him and forcibly took his phone to delete a recording.
Allegation of terrorist connection
The most alarming development, however, is the potential terror link. A local family has alleged that they were pressurised by Machhli gang to supply bombs. The family claims to have reported threats and pressure to the CBI, police, Prime Minister's Office since 2013 but their pleas went unanswered.
The family also reported repeated threats to their lives and instances of being falsely implicated in cases by the gang to silence them. The crime branch is actively investigating these serious allegations.
DCP Akhil Patel said, "This is no longer just about drugs or exploitation. Terror links, land mafias, illegal arms, and crimes against women are all under the scanner. We are moving swiftly. More arrests will follow."
