Charminar mamool racket: Two arrested by police

Hyderabad: Charminar police arrested two men involved in the Charminar mamool racket that allegedly extorted money from pushcart vendors near the monument. Officers acted under the supervision of the DCP, Charminar Zone, following a complaint from a cosmetic pushcart vendor who said he was threatened and forced to pay daily “mamool” to continue business in the area.

Police registered a case in Crime No.49/2026 under Sections 308(5), 351(3), and 127(2) read with 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). According to investigators, the accused demanded money from vendors operating around Charminar and used threats to enforce payments.

The arrested accused were identified as Shaik Naseeruddin alias Mohammed Naseeruddin alias Ganna Naseer, 72, a juice vendor from Jahangir Nagar in Bhavani Nagar, and Md Azaan Quadri alias Toufeeq, 42, a petty vendor from Bada Bazar in Yakutpura. Another associate, Azhar, remains absconding.

Police probe into Charminar mamool racket exposes threats to vendors

Police apprehended the two accused on March 12 near Ruman Hotel in Mirchowk after receiving credible information. During questioning, they admitted that they, along with the absconding accused, collected illegal payments from pushcart vendors in the Charminar surroundings.

Investigators said the group initially demanded ₹500 per day from vendors. Later, they increased the amount to ₹1,000 per day. Vendors were allegedly threatened with knives and warned to vacate their business spots if they refused to pay.

Police produced both accused before the court, which remanded them to judicial custody. Officers are continuing efforts to trace and arrest the absconding suspect.

Investigations also revealed that Shaik Naseeruddin is a rowdy-sheeter at Bhavani Nagar Police Station and has several previous cases. These include offences under the NDPS Act, Arms Act, Gaming Act, extortion, and attempt to murder. Meanwhile, Azaan Quadri has earlier cases related to causing hurt and criminal intimidation.

Police appealed to petty vendors around Charminar and nearby residents not to yield to illegal demands. Authorities asked people to inform the police immediately if anyone attempts to collect mamool or threatens them. Officers warned that strict legal action will follow against such offenders.