Mumbai, October 11, 2025 — The Mumbai Police have arrested a man accused of running a massive job scam worth over ₹10 crore, which defrauded dozens of hopefuls seeking government employment. The accused, identified as Nilesh Rathod, was caught by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) from Delhi after months on the run.
The Promise of Secure Jobs
According to investigators, Rathod posed as a Deputy Secretary of the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) and convinced more than 50 people across Maharashtra that he could help them secure government jobs. Many victims, drawn by the promise of stable employment, paid anywhere between ₹2 lakh and ₹4 lakh, believing they were purchasing a legitimate opportunity.
Rathod allegedly held meetings in five-star hotels in Mumbai, giving an air of authority and authenticity. He also handed out forged appointment letters, complete with government seals and signatures, to gain his victims’ trust.
A Web of Forgery and Deception
The accused reportedly maintained a network of associates who helped him communicate with victims, collect money, and manage forged documentation. The operation’s scale — estimated at ₹10.5 crore — has shocked officials, who suspect that Rathod may have connections in other states as well.
Police sources said he used sophisticated printing techniques to create fake documents and identity cards. “His attention to detail made the scam appear official. Even seasoned candidates fell for it,” an EOW officer said.
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The Crackdown and Arrest
After multiple complaints were filed at the Sahar Police Station in Mumbai, the case was transferred to the Economic Offences Wing due to its complexity and high value. Investigators tracked Rathod’s movements across cities before locating him in Delhi, where he was staying under a false name.
He was produced before a Delhi court and granted transit remand to Mumbai. Rathod now faces charges of cheating, forgery, personation, and misuse of forged documents under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Growing Concern Over Job Scams
Officials believe the case reflects a wider problem — the rise of employment frauds exploiting job insecurity.
“These scams target educated but unemployed youth who are desperate for stable government jobs,” an officer explained.
Police are now investigating whether Rathod had collaborators in Maharashtra or Delhi. Meanwhile, victims are demanding the return of their lost savings. “He sold us a dream and vanished,” one complainant said. Authorities have urged job-seekers to verify all employment offers through official government portals and avoid paying any money for recruitment promises.
