Guwahati Police Nab Suspect in Elaborate Vehicle Scam
Guwahati police made a significant arrest on Friday, capturing a man accused of orchestrating a widespread vehicle fraud operation. Officers from the Hatigaon Police Station took Rupjyoti Das into custody from the Bhetapara area of the city.
Details of the Fraudulent Scheme
According to police officials, Das allegedly began his illegal activities in 2023. He used deceptive tactics to rent vehicles from owners across Assam. The accused presented himself as a manager of a private bank, claiming the vehicles were needed for official bank purposes.
Anjad Brahma, the officer-in-charge of Hatigaon Police Station, explained the mechanics of the fraud. "He would rent vehicles under false identities, then sell them to unsuspecting buyers in different states," Brahma stated. "The suspect told buyers these vehicles came from finance auctions, which was completely false."
Scale of the Operation
The police investigation has revealed the extensive nature of this scam. Authorities believe Das cheated numerous vehicle owners, taking possession of more than 150 vehicles through his fraudulent rental agreements.
So far, police have managed to recover twelve vehicles. Eight of these recovered vehicles came from Arunachal Pradesh, while four were located within Assam. The recovery process continues as investigators work to track down the remaining vehicles.
How the Fraud Unfolded
Das followed a specific pattern in his operations. He would pay monthly rent for five to six months to maintain the appearance of legitimacy. After this period, payments would suddenly stop, and vehicle owners could no longer contact him.
Many victims had rented out their vehicles despite having outstanding EMI payments on those same vehicles. This financial pressure made them particularly vulnerable to the scam.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The case came to light on January 1st when Manju Goswami, a resident of Nazira town in Assam's Sivasagar district, filed the first formal complaint. This complaint triggered the investigation that ultimately led to Das's arrest.
Police have registered a case against Das at Hatigaon Police Station. The charges fall under multiple sections of the BNS Act, specifically Sections 61(2), 316(2), 319(2), and 318(4).
Das will appear before the local court on Saturday. Police officials have indicated they will request a 14-day police remand to continue their investigation.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains active as police work to answer several key questions. Officers are trying to determine whether Das acted alone or had accomplices assisting him in the fraud scheme. They continue their efforts to locate and recover all vehicles involved in the scam.
This case highlights the sophisticated methods used by fraudsters in vehicle-related crimes and serves as a warning to vehicle owners about verifying renter credentials thoroughly.
