MUMBAI: Authorities have arrested the alleged mastermind behind a ₹22.31 crore compensation fraud linked to the Mumbai–Ahmedabad High Speed Rail project, uncovering a coordinated scheme that diverted funds meant for an illiterate landowner and her family.
Fraud Built on Forged Documents and Misuse of Authority
The accused, identified as Umesh Harihar Rana, was apprehended in Hyderabad after reportedly evading arrest for several days. Investigators said he, along with associates Sanjay Joshi, Aslam Sarojiya, Venu Gopal, Kiran Joshi, and Kushtha Pai, conspired to gain control over compensation funds belonging to Maya Chavan.
Officials stated that the group used forged documents, fake SIM cards, and banking manipulation to execute the fraud. The operation began in 2018 when the accused approached Chavan, informing her that her land would be acquired for the bullet train project. They pointed out discrepancies in land records and offered assistance in including her name, obtaining her thumb impressions and signatures on multiple documents.
The accused then convinced the family to execute a Power of Attorney in their favour, which later became the basis for controlling both the land documentation and the compensation process.
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Banking Manipulation Enabled Large Scale Fund Diversion
Investigations revealed that the accused facilitated changes in land records to establish eligibility for compensation and subsequently opened a bank account in Chavan’s name. However, the account was linked to a mobile number controlled by the accused, allowing them to monitor and authorise transactions.
They also secured signed blank cheques and took possession of her ATM card. In January 2020, when approximately ₹20.95 crore was credited as compensation, the funds were rapidly transferred across multiple accounts. Officials allege that nearly ₹20.88 crore was routed directly into Rana’s account within a short period.
When the victim became aware of the transactions and confronted the accused, she was allegedly threatened. She was later paid ₹25 lakh, while the remaining amount was retained by the accused.
Investigation Expands to Trace Network and Recover Funds
The case escalated when the victim attempted to file a complaint, after which the accused allegedly initiated legal action against her family. Her husband was arrested and spent time in jail, further complicating the situation.
With support from social activists, the victim was eventually able to register a formal complaint, leading to a detailed investigation. Authorities used technical surveillance and mobile tracking to locate Rana in Hyderabad.
Officials said efforts are now focused on tracing the full money trail, recovering the diverted funds, and apprehending the remaining accused. Investigators are also examining whether a larger network facilitated the fraud.
