Surat: Gujarat Police have arrested Ahmedabad-based hotel businessman Umang Haribhai Thakkar in connection with an alleged land and plotting fraud in which more than 15 buyers were reportedly duped of around ₹1.56 crore. According to investigators, the accused launched a residential plotting project despite unresolved ownership issues and the absence of necessary statutory approvals, allegedly collecting money from investors by promising them plots that were never handed over. Following his arrest, a court remanded Thakkar to judicial custody while the investigation continues into the full extent of the alleged fraud and the possible involvement of other individuals.
Police said the case relates to a plotting scheme named ‘Sahjanand Nirvana’ in Kholwad village of Surat district’s Kamrej area. Investigators allege that the land on which the project was marketed did not have a clear title. During the probe, police found that the same parcel of land had reportedly already been sold to another individual in 2018. Despite the ownership dispute, the project was allegedly promoted aggressively, with prospective buyers being assured that the plots were legally available for purchase.
According to the First Information Report (FIR), the accused allegedly used advertisements, promotional banners and marketing campaigns to attract buyers by offering affordable plots. Several investors reportedly paid booking amounts as well as the full purchase price after being assured of lawful ownership and timely possession. Police claim that around ₹1.56 crore was collected from approximately 15 to 16 buyers. However, neither possession of the plots was given nor were the payments refunded, prompting the affected investors to approach the authorities after waiting for an extended period.
Investigators further stated that the project allegedly lacked mandatory registration under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA). In addition, the land earmarked for the project was reportedly already the subject of an ongoing legal dispute before a court. Police allege that these crucial facts were concealed from prospective buyers, leading them to invest in a project whose legal status was uncertain.
The Kamrej Police launched an investigation after receiving written complaints from the affected buyers. During the inquiry, officers reportedly found that the accused had been avoiding arrest for a considerable period. Police said legal action was intensified, following which Thakkar was traced, arrested and produced before a court, which subsequently sent him to judicial custody pending further investigation.
Investigating officials said the case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to cheating, criminal breach of trust and criminal conspiracy. Authorities are also examining financial transactions linked to the project, land ownership records, promotional activities and documentation used during the sale process. Investigators believe the ongoing probe may identify additional victims and uncover further financial irregularities associated with the project.
Police have also named Neil Thakkar and Kanta Thakkar as co-accused in the case. Investigators are examining their alleged roles in the planning, promotion, booking and collection of funds from investors. Authorities are also verifying whether any additional individuals, companies or intermediaries assisted in marketing the project or facilitating the transactions.
Legal and real estate experts have advised prospective buyers to conduct comprehensive due diligence before investing in any property project. They recommend independently verifying land ownership records, RERA registration, approvals from local development authorities and the existence of any pending litigation related to the property. Experts caution that relying solely on advertisements or verbal assurances can expose investors to significant financial risks. They further advise seeking legal opinion whenever ownership documents or project approvals appear unclear. Police have also urged citizens to verify all project documents thoroughly before making payments and to immediately report any suspected real estate fraud to the appropriate authorities.
