The Mumbai Police have registered a case against a man for allegedly posing as the son of a former Gujarat MP and cheating a businessman along with others of lakhs of rupees on the promise of good returns on their share market investments, officials said.
Accused Identified
The accused was identified as Vicky Vajubhai Barejia alias Vicky Prajapati, an official of Khar police station here said. The complainant in the case, Swaranjitsingh, a businessman residing in Khar with his family, came in contact with Barejia in March last year.
How the Fraud Unfolded
During their initial meetings, the accused claimed to be a resident of Gujarat and stated that his father was a former MP. To gain trust, he allegedly showed an identity card claiming links in Parliament. He also claimed close connections with senior IAS, IPS officers and central government officials.
In April last year, the accused visited Mumbai and advised the complainant to invest in shares, assuring him that the amount would be doubled in six months. He also claimed that several IAS and IPS officers were investing money through him, the police official said.
Believing his claims, the complainant invested money. A total of Rs 41.39 lakh were allegedly transferred to the accused through cash, RTGS and NEFT transactions. Police said the accused later returned around Rs 9.75 lakh and purchased some shares on behalf of the complainant, but subsequently stopped paying profits or returning the remaining amount.
Other Victims
During the inquiry, it came to light that the accused had similarly lured several other persons with promises of doubling their investments. One of the friends of the complainant was also allegedly cheated of Rs 5 lakh.
When the victims demanded their money back, the accused allegedly threatened them with serious consequences if they approached the police.
Legal Action
Following the complaint, the police conducted a preliminary probe and registered a case of cheating and criminal breach of trust. The complainant said he has lost Rs 18.69 lakh in the case.
