Vadodara Robbery Investigation Reveals Massive International Currency Racket
Police in Vadodara made a stunning discovery while investigating a straightforward robbery case. What started as a probe into a Rs 10 lakh theft has now exposed what authorities suspect is an extensive international currency racket.
Swift Arrests Lead to Unexpected Findings
Officers acted quickly after businessman Lilaram Revani reported being attacked and robbed near his Karelibaug residence on Friday night. Within hours, police had tracked down and arrested seven men connected to the crime.
The arrests included Shana Vaghela, identified as the main conspirator, along with Akash Devipujak, Ravi Thakore, Atul Devipujak, Hiren Vasava, Rahul Marwadi and Anil Parmar.
Foreign Currency Discovery Raises Suspicion
During the arrests, police recovered the stolen Rs 10 lakh. But they found something much more significant - a massive collection of foreign currency notes from twenty different countries.
The total value of these foreign notes exceeded Rs 2.54 crore. The currencies came from nations including the United States, Kenya, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Qatar, Canada, Russia and Japan.
"The seizure of such a large amount of foreign currency indicates the possibility of an illegal racket involved in the sale and purchase of foreign exchange," stated R G Jadeja, police inspector with the detection of crime branch.
Conflicting Claims About Currency Ownership
The arrested men claimed the foreign currency was part of their loot from Revani. However, police records show the businessman's complaint mentioned only Rs 10 lakh in Indian currency being stolen.
Officials explained that Revani remains in a state of shock following the attack. "Revani is yet to be questioned in detail as he is still in a state of shock. We will also verify whether any portion of the seized foreign currency belongs to him," a police official confirmed.
Long-Term Connection Between Accused and Victim
Investigators revealed that Vaghela, who works with a scrap dealer, first met Revani about six years ago during a transaction involving an artefact. The two men maintained contact over the years.
Police believe Vaghela used this connection to gather information about Revani's movements and cash-carrying habits. "Vaghela remained in regular contact with the complainant and was aware of his movements and the fact that he often carried large amounts of cash. He then roped in the other accused and planned the robbery," officials explained.
Carefully Planned Attack
The gang reportedly watched Revani, who owns a gift shop, for several days before executing their plan. On Friday night, as Revani stepped out of his car near his home, one attacker threw chilli powder into his eyes.
Another snatched a bag containing cash before the entire group fled the scene. The quick police response led to their capture within hours.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue their investigation into this complex case. Police confirmed they are working to arrest two additional suspected members of the gang.
The discovery of such a substantial amount of foreign currency has transformed what appeared to be a local robbery into a potentially significant international financial crime investigation.
