Jammu Special Crime Wing Cracks Down: Charge-Sheets Filed in Triple Fraud Blitz

Jammu, March 31:

In a major breakthrough against white-collar crime, the Special Crime Wing (SCW) of the Jammu Crime Branch has formally filed charge-sheets in three high-profile cases. The investigations expose a web of illegal chit funds, forged government appointments, and elaborate impersonation rackets that have collectively bilked citizens out of millions.

1. The ₹57 Lakh Chit Fund Trap

Case Reference: FIR No. 36/2023

Prime Accused: Pawan Kumar Gupta

In a classic “get rich quick” scheme, Pawan Kumar Gupta allegedly operated an unauthorized chit fund, luring unsuspecting investors with promises of astronomical returns.

• The Damage: Victims were defrauded of over ₹56.89 lakh.

• The Legal Hammer: Investigated by Inspector Ashok Bazaz, the accused faces charges under Sections 406 (Criminal Breach of Trust) and 420 (Cheating) of the RPC, alongside violations of the Chit Fund Act.

• Status: Charge-sheet presented before the Hon’ble 13th Finance Commission Court, Jammu.

2. The ‘Forest Department’ Employment Scam

Case Reference: FIR No. 03/2023

Prime Accused: Ashish Bhandari

Exploiting the desperation for stable employment, Ashish Bhandari allegedly extracted ₹7.5 lakh from a complainant by promising a job in the Forest Department.

• The Deception: The investigation revealed a morbid twist—Bhandari allegedly used forged documents and cheques belonging to his deceased mother to facilitate the fraud.

• The Legal Hammer: Inspector Deepak Bharti led the probe, establishing offences under Sections 420, 465, 467, and 468 of the RPC, as well as the Prevention of Corruption Act.

• Status: Charge-sheet presented before the Hon’ble Anti-Corruption Court, Jammu.

3. The Impersonation Racket

Case Reference: FIR No. 37/2023

Accused: Tariq Rasool Sheikh and Shair Mohd.

Operating across Jammu and Doda, this duo allegedly posed as high-ranking officials to “sell” government positions to job seekers.

• The Damage: Approximately ₹10–13 lakh was collected from multiple victims.

• The Manhunt: While Tariq Rasool Sheikh has been arrested (currently on bail), Shair Mohd. remains at large. Legal proceedings have been initiated to declare him a fugitive.

• Status: Charge-sheet presented before the Mobile Traffic Magistrate, Doda by Inspector Kali Charan.

Official Statement: A Warning to the Public

The investigations were conducted under the direct supervision of SSP SCW Jammu, Sh. Sanjay Parihar, who emphasized that the department is taking a “zero-tolerance” approach toward financial predators.

“We are committed to bringing fraudsters to justice. We urge the general public to remain vigilant. If a scheme offers unrealistic returns or a government job in exchange for a ‘fee,’ it is almost certainly a scam.” — SSP Sanjay Parihar