Mumbai Crime Branch has apprehended Nishit Patel, a businessman, in connection with a substantial alleged fraud totaling Rs 16.24 crore. The purported victim is Habiba Jaffrey, wife of actor Jaaved Jaaferi. The case, now lodged at Khar Police Station, names six individuals, including BMC Assistant Commissioner Mahesh Patil, as accused.
The core of the alleged scheme involved the creation of fake documents, a tactic allegedly admitted by Nishit Patel during interrogation. Funds were reportedly diverted through multiple company accounts, ensnaring the Jaffrey family in a conspiracy masked as tax settlement and investment opportunities.
Allegations and Arrests
The FIR outlines a broad spectrum of accused parties, including Nishit Patel, Mahesh Patil, Rupesh, Sagar Mehta, and Devendra Padwal, among others. Charges have been filed under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Patel, identified as the primary accused, was presented in court and remanded to police custody until May 19. The Property Cell of the Mumbai Crime Branch spearheaded the arrest.
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Habiba Jaffrey, upon realizing the extent of the alleged deception, filed the initial complaint. Reports suggest that under the guise of investment and tax settlement, the accused ensnared the Jaffrey family, leading to the sale of properties and the raising of funds, which were subsequently misappropriated.
The Network of Accused
Nishit Patel: Businessman, arrested as the main accused. Allegedly involved in creating fake documents.
Mahesh Patil: BMC Assistant Commissioner, named in the FIR. Allegedly introduced to Habiba Jaffrey by an acquaintance named Ali Raza.
Rupesh, Sagar Mehta, Devendra Padwal: Also named in the FIR.
The alleged fraud occurred through the use of fake documents and the diversion of funds. The invested money was purportedly routed through various corporate accounts, obscuring its true destination.
Context and Investigation
The case is considered high-profile, drawing attention due to the involvement of a well-known actor's family. While the police have confirmed the financial figure, the complete modus operandi and specific transaction details are still under investigation. Authorities anticipate that further details may emerge as the probe progresses, with the potential for more complainants or financial connections to surface.
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The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections cited in the FIR include 318(4), 319(2), 336(2), 336(3), 338, 340(2), 341(1), 61(2), and 3(5). The exact nature of these charges points towards complex financial and document-related offenses.
