Mumbai: After a dramatic multi-state pursuit, DB Marg Police have arrested 37-year-old Nagji Patel, a fugitive wanted in a cheating case and a murder. Patel, originally from Rajasthan, had been working as a helper for steel trader Paras Jain since 2018, assisting with various tasks at Jain's home and business.
In 2022, Patel tricked Jain’s son into giving him ₹10 lakh from their home, claiming it was needed for shop-related work. He then vanished without a trace. A year later, in 2023, he allegedly committed a murder in Rajasthan to avenge the killing of his brother-in-law. He once again went underground after the crime.
Rajasthan Police had declared a reward for information leading to Patel’s arrest. He was finally nabbed by Rajasthan Police in 2024 and served 120 days in jail. On the 121st day, he was released on bail.
DB Marg Police, who had been tracking him, resumed their pursuit after learning of his release. For the past eight months, Patel had been living under the radar, frequently changing locations to evade arrest. Recently, police received a tip that he was in Delhi. A team led by Assistant Police Inspector Shaikh was dispatched, but by the time they arrived, Patel had moved on to Rajasthan.
Further investigation revealed that Patel had travelled from Rajasthan to Ahmedabad and then to Vadodara. The police finally apprehended him in Vadodara just as he was preparing to return to Rajasthan.
Patel was brought back to Mumbai and presented in court, which remanded him to police custody till July 10. Further investigation is underway to uncover details related to both the cheating and murder cases.
