Surat Police Captures Two Elusive Fraudsters After 11-Year Manhunt
Surat's Detection of Crime Branch (DCB) has successfully arrested two high-profile fraudsters. Each carried a bounty of Rs 50,000. The duo allegedly duped investors of a staggering Rs 800 crore in a massive mall franchise scam. They remained on the run for over a decade, evading law enforcement across multiple states.
Long List of Cases and a Decade-Long Escape
The accused individuals are Gopal Shekhawat, aged 59, and Mohammad Salim Khan, aged 49. Police records show a total of 54 cases registered against them nationwide. One notable case was filed at the Vesu police station in Surat itself.
Their evasion began 11 years ago. A case registered by Begusarai police in Bihar triggered their flight. Following this, the Begusarai range DIG announced a bounty of Rs 50,000 on each fugitive. This reward highlighted the seriousness of their alleged crimes and the determination to capture them.
Tip-Off Leads to Dramatic Arrest in Surat
The Surat DCB's anti-organised crime squad received crucial intelligence. A tip-off indicated the duo would be near the Pal RTO area for some work. Acting swiftly on this information, police officers raided the location. The operation resulted in the successful arrest of both individuals.
Initial investigations have revealed shocking details. The fraudsters allegedly duped thousands of investors through their elaborate franchise scam. Their network spanned several states, exploiting the trust of ordinary people seeking business opportunities.
The Elaborate Mall Franchise Scam Unraveled
Before 2011, the accused launched two companies: New Look Multitrade Pvt Ltd and New Look Retails Pvt Ltd. They opened a mall named ‘N Mart' in Surat's Adajan area. This venture served as a front for their fraudulent activities.
They actively solicited investments and franchise applications from people across India. Their reach extended to states including Bihar, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Telangana, Jharkhand, and Gujarat. Promises of high returns and successful franchise operations lured in victims.
However, the promises turned out to be empty. The accused failed to deliver the promised returns or operational franchises. Investors lost their hard-earned money, leading to widespread financial distress and numerous police complaints.
Ongoing Investigation and Future Steps
DCB police officials have confirmed that further investigation is now underway. Authorities aim to track the duo's activities over the past several years. They will piece together their movements, financial transactions, and any potential accomplices.
This arrest marks a significant breakthrough in a long-standing case. It brings hope to the thousands of investors who suffered losses. The police continue their efforts to ensure justice is served and to recover the defrauded funds where possible.
