Chennai, 13 December (H.S.): Popular YouTuber and political commentator 'Savukku' Shankar was arrested by Adambakkam police on Saturday after an hours-long standoff at his residence. Police were eventually forced to break open the door of his flat with the assistance of Fire and Rescue Services personnel to effect the arrest.

The action was initiated based on a complaint lodged by a film producer. According to police officials, Shankar refused to open the door and insisted that officers speak with his advocates before entering the premises. After the prolonged refusal, the authorities proceeded with the forced entry and subsequent arrest.

Police sources indicated that the charges stem from allegations that Shankar and his team assaulted the producer, snatched ₹2 lakh, and demanded a substantial sum of money to remove a video. Furthermore, action has also been initiated against five other members of Shankar's team in connection with the case.

Hours before his arrest, Shankar had released a video claiming that the police were attempting to apprehend him in a false and completely fabricated case. He denied all allegations, including the assault and extortion claims, and suggested that the police action was being carried out at the instigation of a senior official.

He confirmed that he had previously received and responded to summons in late October, denying the allegations at that time.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary