Maharashtra Police have arrested two developers for allegedly constructing an unauthorised eight-storey residential building in Virar using forged approvals and cheating 113 flat purchasers. The case has raised concerns about fraudulent property transactions and the risks faced by homebuyers in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
The arrests were made on Wednesday by the Mira-Bhayandar, Vasai-Virar (MBVV) Police, officials said. The building is located in Naringi village in Virar East, within Palghar district, adjoining Mumbai.
According to a statement issued by the police, the accused allegedly relied on fabricated construction permissions and fake commencement certificates (CC) to register and sell 113 flats. Investigators suspect that the alleged scheme resulted in financial losses for unsuspecting buyers and caused losses to the government.
The police registered a first information report (FIR) at Virar police station on October 19. The case has been filed under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to cheating and criminal breach of trust.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Kamlesh Mahadev Patil, 40, and Vishal Vinayak Patil, 38. Both are residents of Naringi village in Virar.
A local court has remanded the two accused to police custody until October 29, allowing investigators to question them and examine the alleged fraud in greater detail.
The investigation is also focusing on whether other individuals were involved in preparing the allegedly forged documents, securing registrations or facilitating the sale of flats in the unauthorised building.
The case highlights the importance of verifying building approvals and legal documentation before purchasing residential property. Homebuyers are generally advised to check commencement certificates, sanctioned building plans and other relevant permissions with the appropriate planning authority before committing funds.
As the investigation continues, police will seek to establish how the alleged irregularities occurred, identify any additional suspects and determine the full extent of the financial impact on buyers.
The arrests underscore the need for stronger vigilance against unauthorised construction and fraudulent property documentation in rapidly expanding residential areas around Mumbai.
Source: Rediff
Pic Credit: Hindustan Times
