Bhubaneswar, Dec 2: Bhubaneswar police have busted a gang of recovery agents accused of illegally seizing vehicles from public roads and extorting money from car owners.

The group, operating under the name Maa Bhagabati Associates, allegedly posed as authorized recovery agents and forcibly took away cars, even when owners had cleared their loan installments.

According to complaints filed at Sahid Nagar police station, the agents demanded excess payments from vehicle owners despite loans being settled. Victims reported that the gang would stop cars in the middle of the road, claim recovery rights, and drive away the vehicles without proper documentation. Several car owners alleged continuous harassment and exploitation at the hands of the group.

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Acting on a recent complaint, Sahid Nagar police detained the gang’s leader and seized two cars from their possession. The accused is currently under interrogation, while other members of the gang remain absconding. Police have launched a manhunt to trace the remaining agents involved in the racket.

Authorities confirmed that the gang had been exploiting multiple people across the city, creating fear among vehicle owners. The police have assured strict action against those misusing recovery agent identities and warned citizens to verify credentials before handing over vehicles.

The incident has raised concerns about fraudulent recovery practices and the need for tighter regulation of recovery agencies. Officials emphasized that only authorized agents with proper documentation can repossess vehicles, and any illegal activity will be dealt with firmly.

With investigations underway, police are expected to uncover more details about the extent of the gang’s operations and the number of victims affected.