Pune Jeweller and Son Accused of Rs 27 Lakh Gold Fraud, 41 Victims File Complaints
In a shocking case of financial deception, the Dehu Road police in Pune are actively pursuing a jeweller and his son who have allegedly absconded after defrauding 41 residents of approximately Rs 27 lakh. The duo is accused of collecting gold jewellery from customers under false pretenses of repairs or crafting new ornaments, only to close their shop and disappear with the valuable assets.
Complaint Reveals Pattern of Deception Over Two Years
The fraud came to light when a 46-year-old resident of Dehu Road filed a formal complaint with the police. According to authorities, the complainant had been a regular patron of the jeweller's shop, which had been operating in the Dehu Road market for the past five years. In January of this year, the victim visited the establishment to have a gold chain repaired.
The jeweller and his son persuaded him to exchange the old chain for a new one instead. The complainant handed over his jewellery, trusting the shop's longstanding reputation. However, when he returned a few days later, the jeweller assured him the new chain would be ready within two to three days. On January 31, the victim discovered the shop was shuttered and the jeweller's mobile phone was switched off.
Upon visiting the suspects' residence, neighbors informed the complainant that the entire family had vacated the flat two days prior, indicating a premeditated escape plan.
Investigation Uncovers Widespread Fraud Involving 627 Grams of Gold
Since the initial complaint, a total of 41 residents have approached the Dehu Road police with similar grievances. Investigations have revealed a consistent and alarming pattern: the duo accepted gold from customers but never returned the finished products. Police reports indicate that the suspects fled with a total of 627 grams of gold, valued at around Rs 27 lakh.
A police officer involved in the case stated, "We have received 41 applications against the suspects so far and are actively searching for them." The fraud appears to have been ongoing for about two years, with victims trusting the shop due to its established presence in the local market.
The case highlights vulnerabilities in small-scale jewellery transactions and underscores the importance of vigilance among consumers. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward as they intensify efforts to locate the accused jeweller and his son.
