Bookie puts cops in dock for frame-up

MUMBAI: A controversial bookie has approached the Bombay high court after an investigating officer allegedly framed him in a betting case. The petioner, Brij Kanojia, claimed that it was the price he had to pay for refusing to help the officer "establish contacts" with punters operating in the city. The court has directed the police to conduct a probe into the allegations and disposed of the case.On January 23, a team comprising officials of crime branch (unit-8) raided a house in Malad (W) and arrested four bookies, Manoj Modi, Brijesh Modi, Nimesh Desai and Rakesh Ruparel, who were allegedly accepting bets for an England-Australia match. They were booked for betting and forgery.After four days ofinvestigation, the crime branch arrested Kanojia for his alleged involvement inthe case. According to Kanojia, he used to regularly visit the crime branchoffice to convince the police officials that the four were innocent. "I wasarrested after I refused to comply with the demands of an officer who wanted meto help him get in touch with bookies in the city. The officer repeatedly saidthat it was his senior who was interested in establishing contacts," Kanojiaalleged, producing entry-passes as proof of his visits to the policeheadquarters.However, the officer has denied Kanojia's allegations."Initially, we were unaware of his involvement. We arrested him after our probepointed to his role in the racket, which was providing financial help to thearrested bookies and helping them get in touch with customers. The accused istrying to derail our investigations," he said.Admitting that he knewsome bookies, Kanojia said, "They seek my help to fight their legal battle.There is nothing wrong in arranging advocates for someone."On thecourt's direction, an assistant commissioner of police (crime) recordedKanojia's statement and has initiated a probe into thecase.Meanwhile, an informer has approached the Bombay high courtseeking police protection. According to the informer, he feared for his life asthe Malad raid was conducted following his tip-off. The court will hear thepetition next month.