Third FIR Filed in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Land Scam, Main Accused Still at Large
The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar has registered a third First Information Report (FIR) against Sheikh Irfan Sheikh Shafik and his family members, intensifying the crackdown on a series of alleged land fraud cases. The latest complaint involves a retired police sub-inspector who was duped of Rs 1.3 crore in a deceptive land transaction.
Details of the Latest Fraud Case
In the newly filed FIR, Sheikh Irfan, along with his father Sheikh Shafik alias Sheikh Sahab (a retired building inspector), his mother Gausiya Begum Sheikh Shafik, his brother Sheikh Salman Sheikh Shafik, and associates Sheikh Jameel Sheikh Ghulam Rasul and Sheikh Imran Sheikh Gaffar, have been booked under charges of cheating, forgery, and criminal conspiracy. The complaint was lodged by Gorakh Chavan, a 60-year-old retired sub-inspector who now practices as an advocate at the district court in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
Chavan alleged that he was introduced to Irfan in 2023 through a friend, Yasin Khan Mehmood Khan, who claimed Irfan was a reputable land dealer. Irfan reportedly showed them land measuring approximately 18.7 R in survey number 19/1 at Chaus Colony in Himayat Bagh, asserting it was purchased in the name of his employee, Sheikh Jameel. Trusting these claims, Chavan and his friend agreed to buy the land for Rs 2 crore.
Financial Transactions and Failed Promises
Between February 15 and 20, 2024, the complainant and his friend allegedly transferred Rs 1.3 crore to Irfan and his family members through RTGS transfers and cash payments. Irfan provided a written acknowledgment confirming receipt of the amount. However, when Chavan demanded the execution of a registered sale deed, Irfan repeatedly delayed the process.
To appease the victims, Irfan later issued several cheques as promises of repayment, but these were dishonored due to closed accounts or insufficient funds. The accused then attempted to settle the matter by offering alternative properties, including shops at Salman Hall and a row house, through agreements and General Power of Attorney (GPA) documents. Despite these efforts, no property was legally transferred, and possession was never granted to the complainants.
Threats and Ongoing Investigations
Chavan further alleged that when they pressed for their money back, Irfan's father threatened his associate with a revolver, adding a layer of intimidation to the financial deceit. EOW inspector Sambhaji Pawar confirmed that this is the third case registered against the accused in similar land fraud schemes. Four accused—Gausiya Begum Sheikh Shafik, Hazra Samreen Sheikh (daughter of Sheikh Shafik), Shahista Tabsum Sher Khan (wife of Sheikh Salman), and Sheikh Shafik alias Sheikh Sahab—were produced before a holiday court on Sunday and remanded in magisterial custody.
Pawar stated, "Efforts are ongoing to trace the main accused, Sheikh Irfan, whose whereabouts remain unknown." The EOW is actively investigating the case to uncover further details and bring all involved parties to justice.
Broader Implications and Previous Cases
This incident highlights a pattern of fraudulent activities in the region, with multiple victims falling prey to similar land scams. The arrest of four family members underscores the systemic nature of the alleged crimes, involving forgery and conspiracy. Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution in property transactions and report any suspicious dealings to prevent such frauds.
The case continues to develop as the EOW delves deeper into the financial trails and connections between the accused and other potential victims. With the main suspect still at large, the investigation remains a priority for law enforcement in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
