New Delhi [India], July 4 (ANI): Delhi-based singer Mohd Asif, popularly known by his stage name Bismil, has allegedly received extortion threats from unidentified persons using international phone numbers, following which the Delhi Police Special Cell has registered an FIR and initiated an investigation.

According to the FIR, the threats began on April 20 this year when the singer's manager, Vibhor Hasija, received a phone call from a Portugal-based number demanding 5 crore as extortion money.

Police said another threatening call and several voice notes were received on April 23 from a different international number. During the calls, the caller allegedly identified himself as gangster Deepak Nandal and continued issuing threats.

The complaint states that an initial complaint was filed with Haryana Police, which registered an FIR in the matter.

The threats allegedly intensified on May 13, when Bismil himself received a call warning him to persuade his manager to pay the extortion amount or face serious consequences. The caller allegedly threatened to open fire during the singer's live performances if the demand was not met.

Threatening WhatsApp voice notes were also sent from a UK-based number, following which the singer switched off his phone due to security concerns.

Acting on a complaint received on May 29, the Delhi Police Special Cell registered an FIR under Sections 308(5) and 351(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Police are investigating the origin of the international calls, the identity of those behind the threats, and whether the extortion bid is linked to any organised criminal network.

Further investigation is underway. (ANI)