Surat Builder's Suicide Leads to Arrest of Woman in Extortion Case
Woman Arrested in Surat Builder Suicide Extortion Case

Surat Police Arrest Woman in High-Profile Builder Suicide Case

In a dramatic development in Surat, a woman has been arrested in connection with the tragic suicide of prominent builder Tushar Ghelani, who took his own life on February 1, just days before his daughter's wedding. The arrest follows a detailed complaint filed by Ghelani's daughter, Tanvi, which has unveiled a complex web of alleged extortion and financial misconduct.

Details of the FIR and Arrest

Based on Tanvi's complaint, the police have taken Poonam Bhadoriya into custody. The FIR explicitly states that Bhadoriya had an extra-marital affair with the deceased builder, which forms the crux of the investigation. Investigators have moved swiftly, collecting documentary evidence related to properties and funds that Bhadoriya allegedly received from Ghelani.

According to the FIR, Ghelani received multiple phone calls from Bhadoriya on the night of January 31, leaving him visibly disturbed. Tanvi has alleged that her father confided in her, revealing that Bhadoriya was threatening to create a scene at the upcoming wedding function, adding immense pressure during an already stressful time.

Financial Allegations and Property Transfers

The complaint outlines serious financial irregularities. Tanvi claims that Bhadoriya received Rs 1.37 crore from the Blue Papillon pre-school in Vesu, which was owned by Ghelani. Additionally, it is alleged that Bhadoriya drew extra money beyond her salary under the pretext of a partnership arrangement.

More strikingly, the FIR details that two shops at Jolly Arcade, with a collective value of approximately Rs 1 crore and owned by Ghelani, were transferred into Bhadoriya's name. A police officer involved in the case confirmed, "We have collected documents related to the claims made in the FIR. No payment was made to Ghelani for the shops, and the cheques issued were backdated." This suggests potential fraud in the property dealings.

Extortion and Pressure Leading to Suicide

Investigators suspect that Bhadoriya was systematically pressuring Ghelani in an attempt to extort money and assets, which allegedly drove him to take the extreme step of suicide. Police reports indicate that Bhadoriya made repeated calls to Ghelani in the hours leading up to his death. Following these calls, Ghelani reportedly contacted Bhadoriya's sister, pleading with her to persuade Bhadoriya not to cause any trouble until after Tanvi's wedding. The sister has corroborated this account to the police.

In her complaint, Tanvi elaborated that her father had confided in her about the relationship and alleged that Bhadoriya harassed him by exploiting it. On a previous occasion, when Ghelani was distressed over the alleged harassment, Tanvi confronted Bhadoriya, resulting in a heated argument between the two women. This confrontation highlights the escalating tensions that may have contributed to the builder's mental state.

The case continues to unfold as police delve deeper into the evidence, with the arrest marking a significant step in seeking justice for the grieving family.