Kanpur: Police have arrested Imtiyaz Alam, who had been absconding for several months in an alleged ₹3.30 crore land fraud case involving an egg trader. According to police, Imtiyaz is a close associate of Irshad Alam, described as a co-producer of the film Taj Mahal. A case had been registered in November 2025, after which Imtiyaz allegedly remained absconding. Police had announced a reward of ₹25,000 for information leading to his arrest. He was arrested near Phoolbagh on Thursday.
Imtiyaz is originally from Imamganj Abunagar in Fatehpur and was reportedly living near Latari Park in Patkapur, within the Field Ganj area of Kanpur. Police said he had been changing locations to evade arrest. Investigators are now questioning him to establish the alleged role of other accused persons and trace the financial transactions linked to the case.
Money allegedly taken by promising to arrange land
According to the police, egg trader Mohammad Shoaib, a resident of Civil Lines, had lodged a complaint alleging that Irshad Alam showed him land in Gajju Purwa, Jajmau, and offered to sell it for ₹1.65 crore. The complaint alleges that Shoaib was ultimately made to pay around ₹3.30 crore, but the sale deed was never executed.
When Shoaib allegedly demanded the return of his money, he was threatened. The complaint further alleged that Irshad Alam, along with his associate Mohammad Uzair and others, demanded an additional ₹60 lakh from him as alleged extortion. Following this, Shoaib approached the police.
Bajrang Ganj police registered a case against Irshad Alam, Mohammad Uzair and six unidentified persons. During the investigation, Imtiyaz Alam’s alleged involvement came to light. Police said action was taken against him on the basis of evidence collected during the investigation.
Main accused in Mumtaz murder still absconding
Meanwhile, Shoyel alias Ranu, the alleged main accused in the murder of van driver Mumtaz in Devgarh village under Saadh police station, remains at large. The murder took place six days ago, and police believe the accused has been moving between different states to avoid arrest.
According to investigators, Shoyel fled from Hamirpur and travelled towards Chitrakoot. Police sources said he allegedly shaved his head in an attempt to change his appearance and avoid detection. From Chitrakoot, he reportedly travelled to Manikpur before reaching Surat and then Goa. Police believe he has now returned to Kanpur and may be preparing to surrender before a court. He has reportedly contacted a lawyer in connection with the proposed surrender.
Murder and alleged robbery at victim’s house
Police said Shoyel allegedly carried out the attack late Friday night along with his associate Ashish. Mumtaz was allegedly killed before the accused entered the house and carried out a robbery. Mumtaz’s wife was also seriously injured during the incident.
During the investigation, police also learnt that Shoyel allegedly sold his mobile phone in Goa for around ₹4,000. Investigators are tracing his movements, travel route and contacts to determine who may have assisted him while he was absconding.
Social media activity creates another challenge
Despite being wanted by police, Shoyel has allegedly remained active on social media. On Thursday, he reportedly circulated photographs with a woman along with a message suggesting that people eventually receive what they do to others. He also used the English phrase “tit for tat” in the post.
Police said the accused had circulated similar messages several times since going on the run. Investigators are examining his digital footprint, social media activity and online contacts in an effort to establish his location and trace those who may have helped him.
The Bajrang Ganj police have initiated further legal proceedings after arresting Imtiyaz Alam in the alleged land fraud case. At the same time, Saadh police continue to search for Shoyel alias Ranu in the Mumtaz murder case. Further action in both matters will depend on evidence and facts emerging during the investigations.
