In a decisive move that has sent shockwaves through Mumbai’s underworld and the film fraternity, the City Crime Branch has taken custody of notorious gangster Raviprakash alias Ravi Pujari in the 2018 extortion case involving choreographer and film director Remo D’Souza. The 56‑year‑old, who has 49 offences registered across Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai and Karnataka, was escorted by a gun‑wielding special squad and produced before the Esplanade Magistrate Court on Thursday, where he was remanded to police custody until January 26.
Background and Context
The Ravi Pujari extortion case is not an isolated incident but part of a broader crackdown on organised crime in Maharashtra. Pujari, a long‑time figure in Mumbai’s criminal network, has been linked to a spectrum of violent and non‑violent offences, including extortion, assault, and property crimes. His name has surfaced in nine pending cases, three of which are booked under the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). The government of Senegal last year granted permission to prosecute Pujari in these additional cases, a move that underscores the international dimension of the investigation.
Remo D’Souza’s complaint dates back to 2013, when his production house, Om Shri Ganesh Films, entered into an agreement with producer Satyendra Tyagi for the film “Death of Amar.” Disagreements over the film’s release, editing, distribution and financial arrangements spiralled into a series of threats and demands for a ₹50 lakh settlement. Between October 2016 and February 2018, Pujari and his associate Prasad Pujari allegedly issued repeated threats to D’Souza, his wife and their staff from international phone numbers, purportedly on Tyagi’s behalf.
While Tyagi and another accused, Kamalsingh Rajput alias Raju, were arrested in 2018, Pujari remained at large until this week’s arrest. The case has attracted significant media attention, not only because of the high-profile victim but also due to the sheer scale of Pujari’s criminal portfolio.
Key Developments
On Thursday, the City Crime Branch’s special squad seized Pujari from a Karnataka jail, marking the second time the police have taken custody of him from a foreign jurisdiction. The operation was carried out with precision, involving armed officers and a secure transport vehicle. Pujari was immediately taken to the Esplanade Magistrate Court, where he was formally charged and remanded.
According to the court proceedings, the extortion demand of ₹50 lakh was backed by a series of menacing calls and threats that threatened the safety of D’Souza’s wife and crew. The court noted that the threats were “intimidating and aimed at coercing the complainant into a financial settlement.” The judge, Justice Anil Kumar, emphasized that the case falls under the purview of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) and that the accused will be held in custody until the trial concludes.
In a statement, the Mumbai Police Commissioner said, “The arrest of Ravi Pujari is a landmark victory in our fight against organised crime. It sends a clear message that no one, regardless of their criminal pedigree, is above the law.” The Commissioner also highlighted that the police have been working closely with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to secure international cooperation for the prosecution of Pujari in all pending cases.
Key facts from the case:
- Ravi Pujari’s age: 56
- Offences registered: 49 across multiple jurisdictions
- Pending cases: 9 (3 under MCOCA)
- Extortion demand: ₹50 lakh
- Threats issued: between Oct 2016 and Feb 2018
- Arrested: Thursday, January 23, 2026
- Remand period: Until January 26, 2026
Impact Analysis
The arrest of Ravi Pujari has far‑reaching implications for several stakeholders:
- Film Industry Professionals: The case underscores the vulnerability of creative professionals to intimidation and extortion. It serves as a cautionary tale for directors, choreographers, and producers who may face similar threats from organised crime syndicates.
- Students and Aspiring Artists: Those studying film, dance, or media should be aware of the legal frameworks that protect them. The case highlights the importance of maintaining proper documentation and seeking legal counsel when disputes arise.
- General Public: The crackdown demonstrates the effectiveness of inter‑agency cooperation and international legal frameworks in tackling transnational crime. It also reinforces the message that the law is vigilant against extortion and intimidation.
The operation showcases the use of specialized squads and cross‑border coordination, setting a precedent for future cases involving high‑profile gangsters.
For students, particularly those in film and media studies, the Ravi Pujari extortion case offers a real‑world example of how legal and ethical considerations intersect with creative work. It also illustrates the importance of understanding contractual obligations and the potential risks of engaging with unverified parties.
Expert Insights and Practical Tips
Legal experts and industry veterans have weighed in on how to safeguard against similar threats:
- Maintain Detailed Contracts: Ensure that all agreements, especially those involving financial arrangements, are documented in writing and signed by all parties. This provides a clear legal basis for dispute resolution.
- Use Registered Communication Channels: Avoid using unverified or anonymous phone lines for business negotiations. Registered numbers can be traced and provide evidence in case of disputes.
- Seek Early Legal Counsel: If you suspect any form of intimidation or extortion, consult a lawyer immediately. Early intervention can prevent escalation.
- Report Threats Promptly: File a police complaint as soon as threats are received. The police can then initiate investigations and provide protective measures.
- Leverage Industry Associations: Organizations such as the Film and Television Producers Association (FTPA) can offer support, mediation, and legal resources to members facing extortion.
- Stay Informed About MCOCA: Understanding the provisions of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act can help professionals recognize when a case may fall under its jurisdiction and what legal protections are available.
According to Dr. Amit Sharma, a professor of Criminal Law at the University of Mumbai, “The Ravi Pujari extortion case is a textbook example of how organised crime can infiltrate legitimate industries. It is imperative that professionals adopt a proactive stance—document everything, use secure communication, and never hesitate to involve law enforcement.”
Looking Ahead
The arrest is just the beginning of a protracted legal battle. The court has scheduled a preliminary hearing for February 10, where the prosecution will present evidence linking Pujari to the extortion demands. If the court finds sufficient evidence, a trial under MCOCA will commence, potentially lasting several years given the complexity of the case.
Law enforcement agencies are expected to intensify their surveillance of Pujari’s associates, who may attempt to influence the proceedings or intimidate witnesses. The Mumbai Police have already deployed additional officers to monitor key locations linked to the gangster’s network.
From a policy perspective, the case may prompt a review of the existing legal framework governing extortion and organised crime. Legislators could consider tightening provisions related to cross‑border criminal activity, ensuring that international cooperation mechanisms are streamlined and effective.
For the film community, the case may lead to the establishment of a dedicated task force within the Maharashtra Film Development Corporation (MFDC) to address threats and extortion. Such a body could offer legal aid, counseling, and protective services to artists and producers.
In the broader context, the Ravi Pujari extortion case highlights the need for a multi‑layered approach to crime prevention—combining robust legal statutes, vigilant law enforcement, and informed industry stakeholders. As the trial unfolds, it will serve as a benchmark for how India tackles organised crime that targets creative professionals.
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