Extortionists thrash Howrah trader

HOWRAH: A Howrah businessman suffered injuries on his chest, head and feet after being allegedly assaulted by some extortionists, who wanted him to cough up Rs 1 crore. The incident took place in Salap on Friday. On Saturday, police arrested prime accused Gopinath Patra, an alleged Trinamool leader.
Manas Ray, the victim, is now undergoing treatment at a city hospital. Ray said, "I have a mineral water manufacturing unit at Pakuria in Domjur. Work is on for construction of the unit's second phase. Since the first phase was commissioned about a year ago, Patra has been forcing me to pay up the money."
Police said they have charged Patra for attempt to murder, extortion and assault. Minister Arup Roy said: "If anyone is found guilty, then law will take its own course."