SRINAGAR, Sep 27: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K has arrested a long-absconding accused in connection with multiple cases involving alleged cheating, forgery and fraudulent land transactions.
The arrest was carried out following directions from the Court of the Sub-Judge, Srinagar.
The accused has been identified as Soom Nath Koul, son of Kalash Nath Koul. He was originally listed as a resident of Lotus Tower, North Bengaluru, Karnataka, and is currently residing in Janipur, Jammu.
Officials said a special EOW team was formed to execute the court orders and trace the accused. After sustained efforts and following due legal procedures, the team located and arrested him.
According to the Crime Branch, the accused had allegedly remained absconding for several years. Multiple Hue and Cry Notices were issued and published to trace him. Investigators also alleged that he had used different identities to evade detection.
The Crime Branch said five cases have been registered against him in connection with alleged cheating, forgery and fraudulent transactions involving migrant properties. The cases reportedly involve the alleged use of forged Powers of Attorney and agreements to sell in land deals.
In one case, the investigating agency had earlier filed a chargesheet in absentia under Section 512 of the CrPC, as the accused was reportedly unavailable for proceedings.
During the investigation, the agency alleged that the accused used several identities, including Soom Nath Koul, Brij Nath Bhat, Mohan Lal Dhar and Hadi Nath Dhar, while allegedly facilitating or inducing individuals to enter into land transactions.
The investigation has also uncovered allegations of financial fraud involving crores of rupees, allegedly carried out in connivance with other individuals. The EOW is examining financial transactions, property dealings and the alleged involvement of other accused persons.
The agency said Ghulam Mohi-Ud-Din Dar, son of Abdul Khaliq Dar and a resident of Jawalapora, Samson, Budgam, was arrested last week in connection with the same case and is also alleged to be involved in the matter.
The arrest of Soom Nath Koul, also known as Brij Nath Bhat, Hadi Nath Dhar and Mohan Lal Dhar, is part of the ongoing investigation into the cases registered by the Crime Branch.
The investigation remains underway to determine the full extent of the alleged financial irregularities, identify the properties and transactions involved, and establish the role of other persons allegedly connected with the cases.
The EOW Kashmir has also advised the public to exercise caution while carrying out property and financial transactions and report suspected economic offences to the authorities.
