Police in Gorakhpur have arrested a cashier of Sangam Saree Centre in connection with an alleged financial fraud of nearly ₹2 crore, with investigators probing claims that billing software and sales records were manipulated to conceal irregularities in cash and stock.
The arrested accused has been identified as Ravi Pratap Vishwakarma, who worked at the establishment as a cashier and salesman. Police allege that he, along with other employees, tampered with sales and inventory records over an extended period. After being produced before a court, he was sent to judicial custody.
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Audit Revealed Gaps in Sales and Stock Records
The matter came to light during a financial review and stock verification exercise conducted by the management. During the audit, officials reportedly found major discrepancies between recorded sales figures and the actual inventory available in stock.
The findings led to an internal inquiry, which indicated possible systematic irregularities in the store’s billing and inventory process. According to the complaint, some employees allegedly misused access to the billing software to alter sales entries.
Investigators suspect that several bills were edited or deleted after transactions were completed, allowing parts of the sales proceeds to remain outside official records. There are also allegations that some customers were given alternative or unofficial documents instead of regular computerised invoices.
Police Examine Digital and Financial Records
Police officials said comparison of stock records with billing data revealed discrepancies involving goods and cash worth crores of rupees. Preliminary estimates suggest irregularities of nearly ₹2 crore, though the final amount will be determined after detailed scrutiny.
Following the complaint, police began examining digital records, computer data, sales registers and financial documents to establish how the alleged fraud was carried out. Based on evidence gathered so far, investigators arrested Ravi Pratap Vishwakarma.
Authorities said questioning has provided leads about the possible involvement of others in the alleged scheme. Police sources said two accused had already been arrested earlier in the case.
Hunt On for Other Suspects
Efforts are underway to trace two more suspects believed to be linked to the alleged fraud. Investigators suspect the embezzlement may not have been carried out by one person alone and could have involved coordinated action by multiple employees over a period of time.
The scope of the investigation has now been expanded, with financial records linked to other individuals also being examined. Police are trying to determine the exact role of each person and the full extent of the alleged loss.
Officials said digital evidence, billing records and transaction trails remain under scrutiny. The case has drawn attention within Gorakhpur’s business community, with traders closely watching the investigation into alleged software manipulation and internal financial controls.
