In a major case of fraud, the Jaykheda police of Nashik Rural have registered three First Information Reports (FIRs) against a trading company and two individual traders for allegedly cheating over 300 farmers in Baglan taluka to the tune of approximately Rs 2.7 crore. The incidents have left the farming community in distress as they await payments for their produce.
First FIR: Maize Farmers Cheated of Rs 1.4 Crore
According to the police, the first complaint was filed by a farmer from Pimpalkothe in Baglan taluka. He stated that five individuals associated with a trading company based in Tahrabad of the same taluka purchased maize from him and 180 other farmers in February 2026. The suspects assured the farmers that payment would be made within a month. However, the promised payment was repeatedly delayed, and as of June 8, no money has been disbursed. The total amount owed to these farmers is estimated at Rs 1.4 crore.
Second FIR: Onion Growers Defrauded of Rs 70 Lakh
The same group of suspects has been accused of cheating another set of 102 onion growers in Baglan taluka. A farmer reported that the suspects bought onions from the farmers in February this year with a similar assurance of payment within one month. Despite the lapse of several months, the farmers have not received any payment. The total loss incurred by the onion growers amounts to over Rs 70 lakh.
Third FIR: Grape Growers Lose Rs 69 Lakh
In a separate case, two other traders have been accused of cheating grape growers. The traders purchased grapes from the concerned farmers in December last year, promising to make payment within 21 days. However, the farmers are yet to receive their dues, with the total amount involved being Rs 69 lakh.
Police Investigation Underway
The Jaykheda police have registered cases against five individuals from the trading company under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Assistant police inspector Sagar Kale of Jaykheda police stated, “The cases are being investigated and necessary action will be taken against the suspects.” The police are gathering evidence and recording statements from the affected farmers to build a strong case.
The series of frauds has raised concerns about the exploitation of farmers in the region. Authorities have urged farmers to report any such incidents promptly and to insist on written agreements for all transactions. The farming community hopes for swift justice and recovery of their hard-earned money.
