A 28-year-old trader from Surat has filed a cheating complaint with Puna police after allegedly being defrauded of Rs 7.16 lakh in a failed import deal for houseware goods from China. The incident highlights the risks of relying on social media advertisements for business transactions.
The Incident
Deep Pandya, who operates a houseware business in the Bhagal area of Surat, traveled to China with friends in April 2025 to select products for his business. He chose dustbin items to sell in Surat. Upon returning, Pandya began searching for an import agent to facilitate the shipment.
He came across an Instagram advertisement for Radhe Impex, a company claiming to offer import services. When Pandya contacted the firm, the accused, Kunal Bhojak, allegedly assured him that the goods would be imported and delivered within 30 days. Bhojak instructed Pandya to transfer the payment to him, stating that the money would be routed to the Chinese supplier through his company.
Payment and Delays
Trusting the promise, Pandya transferred Rs 8.86 lakh towards the import order. However, the shipment did not arrive within the stipulated period. Bhojak allegedly made repeated excuses for the delay. When Pandya protested in August 2025, Bhojak returned Rs 1.70 lakh and again promised delivery.
Despite the partial refund, the remaining Rs 7.16 lakh was neither refunded nor were the goods delivered. Frustrated, Pandya approached Puna police to file a cheating complaint against Bhojak and Radhe Impex.
Legal Action
Police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code for cheating and breach of trust. Investigations are ongoing to trace Bhojak and recover the money. This case serves as a cautionary tale for traders to verify the credibility of import agents before making advance payments.
You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Surat | Silver Rate in Surat | Bank Holidays in Surat | Public Holidays in Surat | Surat AQI | Weather in Surat
