Bhubaneswar: Five persons, including a woman journalist of a private web channel, have been arrested in Odisha capital on abduction and extortion charges.
According to sources, the businessman from Barbil and his associate from Kendrapara, engaged in the transportation of minerals, were called to Bhubaneswar by some members of the web channel on August 5. They were taken to an isolated place on the outskirts of the city and held hostage. The accused then demanded Rs 10 lakh for their release.
The duo was released two days later after their family members allegedly paid Rs 50,000 to the abductors. They were allegedly tortured and severely beaten up by the accused during that period.
The matter came to light after the businessman’s associate lodged a complaint with Nandankanan police, which swung into action and arrested the five.
Further investigation is underway
