Mumbai Police Capture Real Estate Scammer After Two-Year Manhunt
Mumbai: After a two-year manhunt, the police finally apprehended Amir Khandwala, a real estate agent who allegedly duped a Jogeshwari resident of ₹3 crore in a fake real estate deal in 2023. The complainant, Mohammad Iliyas Buranuddin Sheikh, had been repeatedly threatened by Khandwala when he demanded the return of his money, according to a police officer.
The incident dates back to October 2022 when Sheikh, who was looking to buy a flat, met Khandwala. Khandwala and his accomplices informed Sheikh that two flats were available for sale at a discounted price of ₹3 crore. Sheikh, believing in the deal, made the payments between October 2022 and June 2023. He was told that he could soon occupy the flats once the necessary documents were ready.
However, when Khandwala failed to deliver the flats despite continuous follow-ups, Sheikh demanded a refund. Instead of returning the money, Khandwala threatened to kill him, forcing Sheikh to seek help from the Amboli police. In September 2023, Sheikh registered a complaint against Khandwala and his accomplices. While the six accomplices were arrested in the same year, Khandwala managed to evade the law for two years.
On Sunday, the police finally caught up with Khandwala, ending his two-year run. 'We have been actively tracking Khandwala for the past two years, and his arrest is a significant victory for justice,' said a senior police officer. The police are now investigating the extent of his operations and the number of other potential victims.
The real estate market in Mumbai is highly competitive and often fraught with fraudulent activities. Buyers are advised to conduct thorough due diligence and verify all documents before making any payments. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and caution when dealing with property transactions.
The Mumbai Police have also issued a statement urging anyone who believes they may have been a victim of similar fraud to come forward and report the incident. 'We are committed to ensuring that all fraudsters are brought to justice and that the real estate market remains safe for all buyers,' the statement read.
