In a shocking case of fraud, two persons have been arrested for taking loans in the name of 65 women from Mankhurd by luring them with false promises of benefits under the government’s Ladki Bahin Yojana. The accused reportedly purchased expensive mobile phones with the loan amounts and later sold them at cheaper rates. The police have launched a search for more people involved in the racket.
According to police, the accused took advantage of the illiteracy and unawareness of women living in the Mankhurd area. They convinced these women that they would receive financial assistance under the Ladki Bahin Yojana. Trusting them, the women handed over their personal documents, which were then used to secure loans from a private finance company.
The fraud came to light when an official from the concerned finance company noticed irregularities and approached the Mankhurd Police Station. Based on the complaint, police registered an FIR on Sunday.
Following investigations, the Mankhurd police arrested Sumeet Gaikwad (32) from Mankhurd and Raju Borade (45) from Chembur on Tuesday. Both accused had collected documents from the women and passed them on to their accomplices, who then used them to obtain loans and purchase high-end mobile phones.
These mobile phones were later sold at reduced prices to other individuals. Police are currently tracking down the people who bought these phones and those involved in selling them.
Further investigation is underway.