A case of alleged blackmail and extortion involving Telugu students has come to light in Dallas, USA, sparking concern within the Indian-American community.
The students, reportedly from Telangana, were arrested for attempting to extort $100,000 from the owner of Desi Chowrastha, an Indian grocery store and restaurant owned by a fellow Telugu.
A video of the incident went viral on social media on New Year's Eve, bringing widespread attention to the case.
The students accused the store owner of tampering with weighing scales and recorded videos as evidence. They allegedly threatened to release the footage to a satellite channel or publish it online unless the owner paid the demanded amount. However, the store owner acted swiftly and prudently.
After consulting with friends, he devised a plan to gather evidence against the accused. He arranged a meeting with them at a local restaurant, where he and his friends recorded the confrontation live, exposing the extortion attempt. The evidence was subsequently shared online.
The incident has caused outrage within the local Indian community and embarrassment for the families of the students back in India.
Many speculate that the students, who traveled to the US for education, may have resorted to illegal activities due to struggles in finding employment after completing their courses.
Expressing his disappointment, the store owner stated, "These students not only committed a serious crime but also jeopardized their careers and lives. Their actions have brought shame to their families and the Telugu community in the US."
Local authorities have initiated an investigation, and legal proceedings are expected to follow. The incident serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the consequences of unethical actions and the importance of community integrity.
