Rajkot SOG Busts Sophisticated Car Loan Scam Using Forged Documents
In a significant crackdown, the Special Operations Group (SOG) in Rajkot has uncovered a highly sophisticated racket involving fraudulent loans obtained on second-hand cars through the use of forged ownership documents. This elaborate scam often operated without the knowledge of the actual vehicle buyers, highlighting a concerning pattern of financial deception.
Mastermind Arrested and Assets Seized
A 29-year-old man, identified as Anand alias Amit Khakkhar, has been arrested for allegedly masterminding this intricate operation. The police have seized assets worth approximately Rs 21 lakh in connection with the case, which includes five vehicles that were central to the fraudulent activities.
How the Scam Unfolded
The scam first came to light following a formal complaint lodged by car trader Bakul Rathod at the DCB police station. Rathod, along with his associate Nayan Savaliya, had agreed to sell a car to Anand for Rs 2.35 lakh. As part of the transaction, the accused was handed over the vehicle along with the original registration certificate (RC), transfer documents, and copies of the owner's PAN and Aadhaar cards.
Investigators revealed that Anand subsequently sold the same car to a third party for Rs 2.82 lakh without informing Rathod. In doing so, he allegedly forged the original owner's signature on the transfer papers, a key element in his deceptive scheme.
Well-Planned Modus Operandi
Police officials described the accused's operation as meticulously planned. Anand would approach sellers of second-hand cars and obtain photographs of their RC books. Using these images, he would create convincing duplicate color copies that appeared authentic.
He then allegedly collected the original RC books from vehicle owners while handing them fake duplicates in return. By forging signatures on transfer forms, he would sell the vehicles to unsuspecting buyers and secure loans in their names. The sanctioned loan amounts were then diverted into his own personal account, completing the fraudulent cycle.
Police Investigation and Findings
Police Inspector Sanjaysinh Jadeja stated that the SOG had received specific intelligence about illegal trading of vehicles using forged documents, which led to tracking down and arresting the accused. The investigation has revealed that five cars have been seized so far, including two that were brought from outside Gujarat. Notably, none of these vehicles were found with valid documentation.
Officials have raised suspicions about the potential involvement of bank personnel in this scam. Loans that were sanctioned in the names of buyers were allegedly credited to the accused's account, suggesting possible collusion or knowledge among banking staff members.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Action
Authorities are now working diligently to identify the original owners of the seized vehicles, verify the role of bank officials in facilitating these fraudulent transactions, and trace the source of the forged documents. Police are coordinating with regional transport offices (RTOs) to gather further details and strengthen their case.
A formal case has been registered against the accused under Sections 318(4), 336(2), 338 and 340(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), reflecting the serious nature of the offenses committed. This investigation continues as authorities work to uncover the full extent of this sophisticated financial fraud operation.
