Kothagudem: Telangana Police have uncovered an alleged ₹52 crore investment fraud, arrested the prime accused from Kerala, and seized 35 vehicles believed to have been purchased using the proceeds of the crime. Investigators allege that the accused collected money from numerous investors by promising high returns through purported business partnership opportunities and used forged documents to gain their confidence. Police said the investigation is continuing to identify additional victims, trace the complete money trail, and locate further assets allegedly acquired with the fraud proceeds.
According to police, the prime accused, Bethampudi Bharat Kumar, was arrested from Pala town in Kerala’s Kottayam district. He was brought to Telangana on a transit warrant and is being questioned in connection with a case registered at the Laxmidevipally Police Station in Kothagudem district following a complaint filed by Bharpati Srinivasa Rao.
Investigators alleged that Bharat Kumar projected himself as a labour contractor associated with ITC Paperboards at Sarapaka and convinced people to invest in contract-related business ventures. He allegedly promised substantial financial returns and assured investors that they would receive a four percent share of the profits by partnering with him in various projects.
Police alleged that the accused created fake partnership agreements and forged business documents to make the investment proposals appear genuine. Authorities claimed that these documents were used to establish credibility and persuade investors to part with large sums of money. The alleged fraudulent activities were carried out through business entities identified as BK Naidu & Co. and Rajeshwari Travels, which investigators believe were used to facilitate the scheme.
During the investigation, police seized 35 vehicles allegedly purchased with the proceeds of the crime. The seized assets include six buses, a water tanker lorry, three tractors, two agricultural machines, seven cars, 14 two-wheelers, and two trailers. Investigators believe these vehicles were acquired after the accused allegedly diverted funds collected from investors.
Police further alleged that the accused invested part of the money in real estate. According to investigators, a three-storey building and a residential plot located in Rajiv Nagar Colony in Bhadrachalam were also purchased using the alleged proceeds of the fraud. Authorities said these assets are being examined as part of the financial investigation.
Officials said scrutiny of bank accounts, financial transactions, property records, and business documents is currently underway to establish the complete flow of funds. Investigators are examining whether additional individuals or entities were involved in facilitating the alleged fraud and whether more assets linked to the accused can be identified and attached during the course of the investigation.
Police are also attempting to identify other investors who may have suffered financial losses but have not yet approached the authorities. Investigators believe the number of victims could increase as the inquiry progresses and additional financial records are analysed. Authorities have appealed to anyone who invested with the accused or possesses relevant information to come forward and assist the investigation.
Addressing the media, Kothagudem Deputy Superintendent of Police L. Adinarayana said efforts are focused on uncovering the complete money trail and tracing every asset allegedly acquired through the proceeds of the crime. Officials added that the investigation remains active and further legal action will depend on the evidence collected during the ongoing probe.
District Superintendent of Police B. Rohith Raju commended the Laxmidevipally Police and the district task force for successfully tracing and arresting the accused. Police also urged the public to thoroughly verify investment schemes before parting with money and to remain cautious of offers promising unusually high or guaranteed returns, noting that public awareness remains one of the most effective safeguards against financial fraud.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
