According to police officials, the alleged mastermind, Priyank Sharma, who was previously associated with the coaching institute as a student, devised the plan by luring the victim from Delhi to Bhopal under the pretext of attending a seminar and discussing expansion plans for new coaching centres. Upon her arrival, she was reportedly taken to a secluded area and held hostage at gunpoint.
Investigators stated that the accused used firearms, including pistols and country-made weapons, to threaten the victim and coerce her into transferring ₹1.89 crore into accounts linked to entities identified as “Janakshila” and “RS Enterprises.” Acting promptly after the complaint surfaced, police froze the transferred funds within hours, and officials said the process of returning the money has been initiated.
The victim had initially checked into a hotel near Bhadbhada before being taken to Bagsewania, where she was allegedly confined in a rented flat for two days. During this period, she was forced to make multiple online transfers. Authorities also revealed that the accused created a staged kidnapping video involving one of their associates to further intimidate her and prevent her from contacting law enforcement.
Police said the flat used in the crime had been rented just a day earlier, and a religious gathering was organised there to avoid suspicion and mask activity. The operation reportedly involved individuals from other districts, including armed accomplices brought in specifically to execute the plan.
Following the incident, Priyank Sharma allegedly attempted to evade arrest by admitting himself to the intensive care unit at AIIMS Bhopal, citing illness. However, police apprehended him from the hospital despite resistance from family members. Investigators have also indicated that he was planning to flee abroad, and the possible involvement of additional individuals, including his wife, is being examined.
All six accused are currently in police custody, and further investigation is ongoing to determine the full scope of the conspiracy.
