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**Summary:**

The arrest of actor Srikanth in a cocaine case has uncovered a vast criminal network in Chennai led by Prasad. This network is involved in drug trafficking, job scams (cheating over 200 people), blackmail using illegally obtained personal data, and land grabbing, particularly targeting NRIs. Several arrests have been made, including police officials, and investigations are ongoing into financial transactions linked to the network.

**News Article:**

**Chennai Cocaine Arrest Unravels Vast Criminal Empire: Job Scams, Blackmail, and Land Grabbing Uncovered**

**Chennai, India** – The recent arrest of actor Srikanth in a cocaine-related case has blown the lid off a sprawling criminal enterprise operating in Chennai, police officials revealed. The network, allegedly headed by main accused Prasad, extends far beyond drug trafficking, encompassing job scams, blackmail, and illicit land acquisition.

Initial investigations linked Prasad to supplying cocaine and hosting drug-fueled parties. However, authorities soon discovered a multi-faceted operation victimizing hundreds.

“Prasad ran an elaborate job racket, defrauding over 200 individuals with false promises of government jobs,” stated a police source. Victims were allegedly promised placements in prestigious organizations like the Chennai Corporation, Railways, Income Tax Department, and TNPSC, paying between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 20 lakh for the bogus opportunities.

The investigation took a darker turn when evidence emerged of blackmail. Prasad allegedly gained unauthorized access to individuals’ call and location records, reportedly aided by two sub-inspectors currently under investigation. A head constable from Madurai, believed to be a close associate of Prasad, has already been arrested.

Adding another layer to the criminal web, investigators are scrutinizing Ajay Vandaiyar, a known associate of Prasad, for alleged land grabbing. Vandaiyar is accused of intimidating landowners, particularly targeting Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), and using forged documents to illegally seize properties. A financial probe is underway into transactions involving AJ Trust and Enterprises, a front company reportedly operated by Vandaiyar.

So far, 22 people have been arrested in connection to the case, and five have been detained under the stringent Goondas Act. Police officials have issued a stern warning that anyone withholding information about drug use or peddling will face legal consequences.

“We are committed to dismantling this entire criminal network and bringing all those involved to justice,” a senior police official stated. “This investigation is ongoing, and we expect to uncover further evidence of their illicit activities.”

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