Mumbai: In a major crackdown, Unit 6 of the Mumbai Crime Branch on Tuesday exposed a gang that lured people into a scam by promising more U.S. dollars in exchange for Indian currency. Four accused were arrested in the operation.
They have been identified as Afzalali Riyasatali Sayyed (42), Rais Ahmed Abdul Jabbar Sayyed (46), Abid-ur-Rehman Mohiuddin Shah (25), and Adil Sahil Khan (40).
According to the Crime Branch, the gang would accept Indian currency under the pretext of providing genuine U.S. dollars, but instead handed over counterfeit currency. The gang used a chemical solution to give the illusion of converting black-coated dollar-size papers into real currency. Victims were tricked into believing they were receiving actual dollars.
During the raid, the police seized 42 bundles of black paper resembling dollar bills, four 5-litre cans and one bottle of chemical solution, six mobile phones of various brands, and Rs 30,400 in cash. The total value of seized items is approximately Rs 1.26 lakh. The accused were produced in the Esplande Court, which remanded them to police custody until July 11.
Acting on a tip-off, Sub-Inspector Dhutraj of Unit 6 received information on July 8 that a man was cheating people at Shivkrupa Lodge near Mankhurd T Junction by offering fake U.S. dollars in exchange for Indian currency.
A team led by Inspector Bharat Ghone, Inspector Sawant, Sub-Inspectors Dhutraj, Chikne, Rahane, Mashare, Desai and others conducted a raid at the location and apprehended the suspects.
A Crime Branch officer revealed that large quantities of counterfeit dollar-sized black paper bundles, thinner, iodine, and alum powder were recovered from the suspects. Preliminary investigation indicates that the gang has carried out similar frauds across Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, and other parts of Maharashtra.
Police suspect there may be more members involved in this racket. Mobile phones seized from the accused contain crucial evidence related to the crime, which are currently being examined. Further investigation is ongoing.
