Mumbai Crime Branch apprehends Nishit Patel in connection with a large-scale cheating operation targeting the wife of actor Jaaved Jaaferi.
The Property Cell of the Mumbai Crime Branch has arrested businessman Nishit Patel in a case involving an alleged Rs 16.24 crore fraud targeting Habiba Jaaferi, wife of actor Jaaved Jaaferi. The case, now a high-profile matter, has been formally registered at the Khar Police Station.
The core of the allegations centers on the creation of fake documents and a purported scheme involving tax settlement and investment opportunities. Authorities have identified a total of six accused individuals in this complex financial entanglement.
Accused List and Legal Filings
The First Information Report (FIR) names several individuals alongside Nishit Patel: Mahesh Patil, identified as a BMC Assistant Commissioner; Rupesh; Sagar Mehta; and Devendra Padwal. The charges have been filed under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 318(4), 319(2), 336(2), 336(3), 338, 340(2), 341(1), 61(2), and 3(5).
Nishit Patel, described as the primary accused, has reportedly admitted his involvement in fabricating documents during interrogation. He was produced in court and subsequently remanded to police custody until May 19.
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The Alleged Scheme and Jaaferi Family Involvement
Reports suggest that Habiba Jaaferi was introduced to Mahesh Patil, the BMC Assistant Commissioner for the G-South Ward, through an acquaintance named Ali Raza. The accused allegedly lured the Jaaferi family—including actor Jaaved Jaaferi and his brother Naved Jaaferi—into the scheme by presenting themselves as being connected to prominent builders and government officials.
"The accused trapped the Jaaferi family in their conspiracy under the guise of tax settlement and investment."
The family, believing they were making sound investments, subsequently sold properties, including flats and bungalows, to fund the scheme. The investigation is reportedly exploring whether similar fraudulent activities have been perpetrated against other individuals, including artists and influential persons.
Background
Habiba Jaaferi is the second wife of actor Jaaved Jaaferi. They married in 1991 and have three children: Meezaan Jafri, Abbas Jaaferi, and Alaviaa Jaaferi. Habiba Jaaferi is also noted as a director for the 'Indian Documentary Foundation', overseeing reporting and organizational decisions.
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