Is Kolkata Police Investigating 12 Central Govt Employees for Loan Fraud?

Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, the Kolkata Police have launched an investigation into 12 central government employees for a bank loan fraud scheme. With one arrest made and suspicions of a larger organized racket, this story reveals serious implications for financial security.
Key Takeaways
- A dozen central government employees are under investigation.
- Loans were secured through forged documents.
- One arrest has been made, with suspicions of a coordinated operation.
- The total fraudulent loan amount stands at approximately Rs 1 crore.
- The case highlights risk reassessment needs in financial institutions.
Kolkata, May 16 (NationPress) The Kolkata Police have initiated an investigation against a dozen central government employees located in the city for allegedly acquiring bank loans through forged documentation and subsequently failing to make repayments.
Among those implicated, Palas Mukhopadhyay, an employee of Indian Railways, has been apprehended. He reportedly secured the largest loan within the group, totaling Rs 11 lakh.
As per police sources, the cumulative loan amount fraudulently obtained by the individuals is estimated to be around Rs 1 crore. Although the sum might not be excessively large, the consistent approach to the fraud has raised alarms about a potential coordinated operation.
All suspects are affiliated with various central government sectors in Kolkata, primarily within Indian Railways. The investigation reveals that they sought personal loans from a particular financial institution via its marketing agents, after which they ceased repayments following a few initial EMIs.
A police insider indicated that this case differs from typical individual loan defaults, given the numerous shared characteristics of the forgery involved.
Background checks conducted by the lender uncovered that all loan applications were processed through a select group of agents and accompanied by forged documents, especially concerning income and financial status. This prompted the institution to file a complaint at the Park Street police station, leading to the current investigation.
Investigators believe this case is notable due to the repeating patterns — all accused are central government employees utilizing similar fraudulent documentation.
Considering that such employees are generally viewed as low-risk by financial institutions, particularly for unsecured loans, the nature of this fraud has led the police to suspect the existence of an organized racket.