Pune Jeweller Cheated of Rs 3 Lakh with Dormant Account Cheque, Police Search for Accused
In a case of alleged financial fraud, the Dighi police in Pune have initiated a manhunt for a man accused of duping a local jeweller of Rs 3 lakh by using a cheque from a dormant bank account. The incident, which occurred in January, has led to the registration of a formal case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), highlighting concerns over cheque-related scams in the city.
Details of the Alleged Fraud
According to police reports, the victim, a jeweller operating a shop at Charholi Phata, lodged a complaint with the Dighi police on Sunday. The accused reportedly visited the jewellery store on January 13, where he selected a gold chain and bracelet valued at Rs 3 lakh. Using persuasive tactics, the man convinced the jeweller to accept payment via cheque, a common but risky practice in such transactions.
An officer from the Dighi police station elaborated on the sequence of events. "The accused presented a cheque for Rs 3 lakh and departed from the shop. However, when the jeweller attempted to deposit the cheque at his bank, it was dishonoured due to being drawn from a dormant account," the officer stated. This revelation exposed the fraudulent nature of the payment, leaving the jeweller with significant financial losses.
Police Action and Legal Proceedings
Following the complaint, the Dighi police have registered a case under Section 318 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to cheating. This legal step underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the incident, as cheque fraud can have severe implications for businesses and individuals alike.
The police investigation has revealed that after the cheque bounced, the jeweller tried to contact the accused but found his cellphone unreachable, further complicating efforts to recover the funds. "The accused's disappearance and the inactive phone number have hindered immediate resolution," the officer added, emphasizing the challenges in tracking down the suspect.
Broader Implications and Community Alert
This case serves as a stark reminder for businesses, especially jewellers and other high-value retailers, to exercise caution when accepting cheque payments. Experts advise verifying account statuses and implementing stricter payment protocols to mitigate risks associated with fraudulent transactions.
As the search for the accused continues, the Dighi police are urging the public to report any suspicious activities or information that could aid in the investigation. The incident has sparked discussions on financial security and the need for enhanced vigilance in commercial dealings within Pune and beyond.
