Accused Allegedly Used Multiple Identities in Fraudulent Land Deals Involving Migrant Properties
SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 27: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K has arrested a long-absconding accused in connection with multiple cases involving alleged cheating, forgery and fraudulent land transactions, following directions issued by the Court of the Sub-Judge, Srinagar.
The arrested accused has been identified as Soom Nath Koul, son of Kalash Nath Koul, originally stated to be a resident of Lotus Tower, Bangalore North, Karnataka, and presently residing at Janipur, Jammu.
Officials said a special team of the EOW Kashmir was constituted to execute the court orders and trace the accused. After sustained efforts and following due legal procedure, the team succeeded in locating and apprehending him.
According to the investigation agency, the accused had allegedly remained absconding for several years. During the period, Hue and Cry Notices were issued and published on multiple occasions in an effort to trace him. Investigators further alleged that he had been using different identities to evade detection.
The Crime Branch said five cases have been registered against the accused in connection with allegations of cheating, forgery and land-related fraud involving migrant properties. The cases reportedly concern the alleged use of fake Powers of Attorney and agreements to sell in land transactions.
In one of the cases, the investigating agency had earlier filed a chargesheet in absentia under Section 512 of the CrPC, as the accused was reportedly unavailable for proceedings.
During the investigation, the accused was allegedly found to have represented himself under different names, including Soom Nath Koul, Brij Nath Bhat, Mohan Lal Dhar and Hadi Nath Dhar, while allegedly inducing individuals to enter into land transactions.
The investigation has also brought to light allegations of financial fraud involving crores of rupees, allegedly carried out in connivance with other persons. The agency is examining the financial transactions, property dealings and alleged involvement of other accused persons.
The EOW further stated that Ghulam Mohi-Ud-Din Dar, son of Abdul Khaliq Dar, resident of Jawalapora, Samson, Budgam, was arrested last week in connection with the same case and was allegedly found to be involved in the matter.
The arrest of Soom Nath Koul alias Brij Nath Bhat alias Hadi Nath Dhar alias Mohan Lal Dhar is part of the ongoing investigation into the cases registered by the Crime Branch.
The investigation remains underway, with the EOW working to establish the full extent of the alleged financial irregularities, identify the land transactions involved and determine the role of other individuals allegedly connected with the offences.
The EOW Kashmir has meanwhile urged members of the public to remain cautious while undertaking property and financial transactions and to report suspected economic fraud to the authorities.
Complaints regarding economic offences may be submitted to SSP EOW Srinagar, Crime Branch J&K, or through the official email address sspeow-kmr@jkpolice.gov.in.(KNC)
