The Mumbai crime branch has issued a lookout notice against suspended BMC assistant municipal commissioner Mahesh Patil, who is an accused in the Rs 16.24 crore cheating case filed by actor Javed Jaffrey's family. The notice was issued earlier this month due to concerns that Patil might flee the country.
Background of the Case
The crime branch's property cell had previously arrested UK-based businessman Nishit Patel for allegedly defrauding actor Javed Jaffrey, his wife Habiba Jaffrey, and their relatives of Rs 16.24 crore. The fraud was executed under the promise of lucrative returns from investments linked to the redevelopment of the New Kamalkunj project in Bandra West.
How the Fraud Unfolded
Habiba Jaffrey first met Mahesh Patil at his BMC office in April 2024 to seek clarification on a tax-related matter. During the meeting, Patil allegedly informed her about an investment opportunity in a Bandra property project and advised her to channel the funds through Nishit Patel.
Police allege that Nishit Patel frequently visited the Jaffrey residence, presenting project layouts and maps. He persuaded the family to invest nearly Rs 30 crore in exchange for commercial space in the proposed redevelopment project. Patel allegedly provided forged letters purportedly issued by a private bank and other fabricated project documents to convince the family to invest.
Amount Collected and Victims
Crime branch officials allege that forged documents and false assurances were used to collect nearly Rs 16 crore from Javed Jaffrey, his relatives, and other investors. Police sources indicate that several influential individuals, including retired police officers, civic officials, artists, and retired judges, had invested amounts ranging from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 20 crore in the project after being promised substantial returns.
Discovery of the Fraud
The alleged fraud came to light in July 2025 when the complainants visited the Bandra registration office and discovered that one of the agreements shown to them did not exist in official records. The accused later assured investors that the money would be returned, but this never happened.
Stay updated with the latest Mumbai news. Download the TOI App.
