HYDRAA Cracks Down on Fraudulent Liaison Agents: Rs 50 Lakh Scam Unveiled

HYDRAA, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority, has exposed a gang that defrauded a man of Rs 50 lakh by promising to settle his dispute with the agency. The Commissioner urges citizens to avoid self-styled liaison agents and report issues directly to HYDRAA.

HydraaFraudLiaison AgentsVertex Real EstateMankhal VillageReal Estate NewsSep 05, 2025

HYDRAA Cracks Down on Fraudulent Liaison Agents: Rs 50 Lakh Scam Unveiled
Real Estate News:Hyderabad: HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath has issued a strong warning to citizens, urging them not to rely on self-styled “liaison agents” or touts after a gang was caught extracting Rs 50 lakh from a man who was promised to settle his dispute with the agency. Ranganath emphasized that all complaints should be placed directly with HYDRAA officers, preferably at the weekly Prajavani grievance program held at his office every Monday.

“HYDRAA staff work with integrity. Do not pay anyone claiming connections to our officers,” the Commissioner stressed. This warning comes in the wake of a significant fraud that was uncovered, involving an organized network of individuals who posed as intermediaries to exploit unsuspecting complainants.

Fake Liaison Network Unmasked

The fraudulent scheme came to light when a complainant revealed that three individuals had extracted Rs 50 lakh by promising to “settle” his dispute through HYDRAA. The trio consisted of a lawyer who had been struck off the High Court Bar Council for presenting forged certificates, and two individuals who posed as “digital media reporters.” They claimed to have close ties to HYDRAA officials and projected that one would “air the news,” another would “speak to HYDRAA,” while the lawyer would “handle the money.”

Vertex Real Estate Row Sparks Probe

The scam was uncovered during an ongoing investigation into complaints against Vertex Real Estate in Mankhal village, Tukkuguda Municipality. Residents had alleged encroachment of Suram Cheruvu, dumping of soil in Kothakunta, and construction of a box drain through disputed land. HYDRAA had already registered two cases against the developer. Additionally, complainant Chaitanya Reddy alleged that Vertex had laid a road across his land.

During the hearings, Chaitanya Reddy disclosed that he had paid Rs 50 lakh to an “intermediary” who assured favorable action. Cross-verification revealed the involvement of the dismissed lawyer and the two self-styled reporters. HYDRAA subsequently booked a formal cheating case at Pahadishareef Police Station.

Evidence of Manipulation

The investigation uncovered video clips and testimonies that showed one reporter airing allegations that HYDRAA was shielding Vertex, another pretending to have “direct access” to senior officers, and the lawyer orchestrating the entire money-collection exercise. The investigation concluded that HYDRAA’s impartial proceedings were deliberately misrepresented to pressure Vertex and mislead the complainant.

Zero Tolerance for Name Misuse

Reaffirming HYDRAA’s zero tolerance for the misuse of its name, Commissioner Ranganath stated, “Anyone collecting money in HYDRAA’s name will face strict legal action. Citizens should bring issues straight to us. We guarantee transparent hearings in front of all parties.” HYDRAA remains committed to maintaining integrity and transparency in its operations, ensuring that citizens can trust the agency to handle their grievances fairly and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HYDRAA?

HYDRAA stands for the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority. It is a government agency responsible for the planning and development of the Hyderabad metropolitan region.

How much money was the complainant defrauded of?

The complainant was defrauded of Rs 50 lakh by a gang posing as liaison agents and promising to settle his dispute with HYDRAA.

What should citizens do if they have a complaint with HYDRAA?

Citizens should place their complaints directly with HYDRAA officers, preferably at the weekly Prajavani grievance program held at the Commissioner's office every Monday.

Who were the individuals involved in the fraud?

The individuals involved in the fraud included a lawyer who had been struck off the High Court Bar Council, and two self-styled digital media reporters claiming close ties to HYDRAA officials.

What actions has HYDRAA taken against the fraudulent individuals?

HYDRAA has booked a formal cheating case against the individuals at Pahadishareef Police Station and has reaffirmed its zero tolerance policy for name misuse.

Related News Articles

India's GCC Boom: Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai Lead the Charge
Real Estate Mumbai

India's GCC Boom: Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai Lead the Charge

The Global Capability Centers (GCCs) in India have witnessed significant growth, driven by a skilled workforce, cost efficiency, and a conducive business climate. Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai have emerged as the top destinations for GCCs, with Bengal

August 5, 2024
Read Article
Godrej Properties Invests Rs 21,000 Crore in Residential Projects Amidst Strong Demand
Real Estate Mumbai

Godrej Properties Invests Rs 21,000 Crore in Residential Projects Amidst Strong Demand

Godrej Properties targets 20% growth in sales bookings this fiscal year, focusing on regions like Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad.

August 11, 2024
Read Article
JKRERA Cracks Down on Non-Compliant Developers: A Step Towards Accountability in Real Estate
Real Estate

JKRERA Cracks Down on Non-Compliant Developers: A Step Towards Accountability in Real Estate

The J&K Real Estate Regulatory Authority issues notices to 20 private developers for non-compliance with RERA, marking a significant step towards enforcing accountability in the region's real estate sector.

August 30, 2024
Read Article
Oberoi Realty Gains Momentum: Bullish Outlook on Strong Pre-Sales and Cash Generation
Real Estate Mumbai

Oberoi Realty Gains Momentum: Bullish Outlook on Strong Pre-Sales and Cash Generation

The recent brokerage report highlights Oberoi Realty's robust pre-sales and strong cash flow, projecting future growth.

December 4, 2024
Read Article
11% Nido Home Finance NCDs – December 2024: A Detailed Investment Analysis
Real Estate

11% Nido Home Finance NCDs – December 2024: A Detailed Investment Analysis

Nido Home Finance is offering Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs) with an attractive interest rate of 11%. This article delves into the details to help you decide if this investment is right for you.

December 15, 2024
Read Article
Gurgaon Businessman Duped of Rs 54 Lakh in Real Estate Scam
real estate news

Gurgaon Businessman Duped of Rs 54 Lakh in Real Estate Scam

In a high-profile fraud case, a businessman from Gurgaon was lured into investing Rs 54 lakh in a fake real estate scheme, only to be left with nothing but empty promises and dishonoured cheques.

January 5, 2025
Read Article