Mumbai Developer Accuses Underworld Don’s Relatives of Rs 30 Crore Fraud
Rohit Poddar, a prominent Mumbai-based real estate developer, has filed a complaint against relatives of Bhai Thakur, alleging a Rs 30 crore fraud. The case involves a partnership for a township project in Vasai-Virar that never materialized.
FraudReal EstateMumbaiBhai ThakurPoddar DevelopersReal Estate MumbaiJun 26, 2025
In 2012, Rohit Poddar met Mehul Thakur, who proposed a partnership for constructing a township in Vasai-Virar. Mehul allegedly assured Poddar of political backing and large land parcels in Vasai and Palghar, promising a 300 per cent return on investment. Mehul's father, Deepak Thakur, also backed the plan and showed Poddar potential land parcels.
Subsequently, a partnership firm, Poddar Viva Construction Pvt Ltd, was formed. Three directors of a Viva Group company - Radhey Khanolkar, Vinay Vartak, and Vinamra Vartak - retired as part of the arrangement. In the months that followed, Mehul and Deepak allegedly demanded repeated transfers of funds from Poddar to the firm's account, claiming the money was to be paid to farmers. Poddar reportedly transferred around Rs 30 crore.
However, no receipts or acknowledgements were provided, and more funds were demanded. Growing suspicious, Poddar reviewed bank records and found that the Rs 30 crore had been illegally diverted to another Viva Group company account controlled by Mehul Thakur. Despite assurances that new land parcels were being arranged, no project materialised, and no funds were returned over the following 13 years, as of June 2025.
The FIR was initially filed at NM Joshi Marg police station, and the investigation has now been transferred to the EOW. The complaint also alleges that directors Vinay Vartak and Radhey Khanolkar, despite being retired, illegally passed a resolution appointing Mehul Thakur as the authorised signatory of Poddar Viva Construction Pvt Ltd. This resolution was used to facilitate the transfer of funds from the firm's account.
Notably, Mehul Thakur was also arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in 2021 in connection with the Mackstar money laundering case, involving allegations of defrauding an American investment fund of crores.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Rohit Poddar?
Rohit Poddar is the promoter of Poddar Developers, a prominent real estate company based in Mumbai, India.
What is the amount of fraud alleged in the complaint?
The complaint alleges a fraud amount of Rs 30 crore.
Who are the accused in the fraud case?
The accused include Bhai Thakur's nephew Mehul Thakur, cousin Deepak Thakur, and two other directors of a Viva Group company.
What was the nature of the partnership proposed by Mehul Thakur?
Mehul Thakur proposed a partnership for constructing a township in Vasai-Virar, promising political backing and large land parcels.
What other legal issues is Mehul Thakur involved in?
Mehul Thakur was also arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in 2021 in connection with the Mackstar money laundering case.
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