Police in Rajkot are searching for a silversmith who allegedly fled the city after taking silver worth more than Rs 24 lakh from two local traders for polishing work. The accused, a 26-year-old man from West Bengal, has been untraceable since November 20, prompting the B Division police to file a formal complaint.
The Initial Complaint and Missing Silver
According to the first complaint filed on November 25, a trader named Darshil Vora reported a significant loss. Vora, who operates a silver ornaments unit on Kuwadva Road, stated that the accused, Rejarul Sheikh, had taken 9.7 kg of 82-touch silver for polishing on November 20. This quantity is equivalent to approximately 7.9 kg of pure silver, valued at an estimated Rs 12.53 lakh.
Vora informed the police that Sheikh had been working with him for about six months and had always returned the materials on schedule. This established trust led Vora to hand over the valuable consignment. However, when the silver was not returned after three days, Vora tried contacting Sheikh. Both of the worker's phone numbers were found to be switched off, raising immediate alarm.
A Wider Fraud Unfolds
Concerned, Vora then visited Sheikh's rented accommodation in the Mengo Market area, only to find the house locked. The landlord revealed that Sheikh often travelled and his current whereabouts were unknown. After Vora alerted the local trade association about the incident, a startling pattern emerged.
It was discovered that on the same day—November 20—another trader, Jemin Sorathiya, had also given silver to Rejarul Sheikh. Sorathiya had entrusted him with 7.358 kg of pure silver, worth around Rs 11 lakh. This silver was also not returned. The traders later confirmed that Sheikh's house remained locked, solidifying fears of a planned disappearance.
Police Action and Ongoing Search
The Rajkot B Division police have registered a formal case under Section 316(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Investigations have revealed that Rejarul Sheikh is a native of Fatehpur in the Hooghly district of West Bengal. Despite efforts, his current location remains unknown, and he is still absconding.
The total estimated value of the missing silver, from both traders, exceeds Rs 24 lakh. The case highlights the risks faced by small businesses and traders who rely on trust-based transactions. The police are continuing their investigation to trace the accused and recover the stolen silver.
