The Kumaon range police have successfully dismantled a major land scam syndicate involving ₹25 crore, with the arrest of its prime accused, Haldwani-based contractor and property dealer Dhananjay Giri, on May 21. Giri was apprehended by a reconstituted Special Investigation Team (SIT), which was formed by IG Riddhim Aggarwal on April 17 to replace a previous SIT following allegations of delays and inadequacies in the earlier probe.
How the Syndicate Operated
Investigators revealed that Giri operated an organized criminal syndicate that systematically defrauded property buyers in Uttarakhand since 2018. The modus operandi involved promising prime land at attractive rates, collecting payments, and then failing to transfer ownership. Nine FIRs have been registered against the racket, with three major cases at an advanced stage of investigation. Additionally, an additional 15 to 20 victims have recently come forward, indicating a much wider fraud network than initially estimated.
Legal Actions Taken
Police have invoked BNS Section 111 regarding organized crime against the accused. Furthermore, under BNSS Section 107, authorities have initiated proceedings to freeze and confiscate properties acquired through the proceeds of the crime. The police have written to the Nainital district magistrate to block any sale or transfer of these linked assets. Officials stated that these assets may eventually be distributed proportionately to compensate the victims.
Ongoing Crackdown
Senior officials added that a crackdown on the remaining gang members is underway, with more arrests expected soon. The SIT is working diligently to trace all associates and recover additional assets. The case highlights the growing menace of land fraud in the region and the commitment of law enforcement to bring perpetrators to justice.
