HYDRAA Warns of Extortion by Impersonators; Asks Public to Alert Police, ACB
HYDRAA urged people not to believe those demanding money in return for official intervention, and warned them against making payments based on threats or promises.
Hyderabad:The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has warned of strict action against people extorting money by impersonating the agency’s officials, and urged victims to lodge complaints with the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) or the police if the came across such instances.
In a statement issued on Friday, HYDRAA clarified that it did not independently take action against illegal constructions or unauthorised buildings; it took action on requests from the Greater Hyderabad, Cyberabad and Malkajgiri municipal corporations to remove dangerous buildings that posed a threat to public safety.
The agency said it had received complaints and noticed social media reports about individuals allegedly threatening people under its name, and collecting money through intimidation.
HYDRAA urged people not to believe those demanding money in return for official intervention, and warned them against making payments based on threats or promises. They said that victims can approach HYDRAA, ACB or their local police stations to report such cases.
They also cautioned hostel operators against running facilities in structurally unsafe buildings. HYDRAA stated they gave them until December 31 to shift their hostels to safer premises to prevent possible loss of life due to building collapses, post which they will take action along with municipal officials.
