Could a Woman Be Cheating Jewellers in Srinagar?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Srinagar, Nov 5 (NationPress) A woman accused of fraud has reportedly swindled multiple jewellers in Srinagar out of lakhs of rupees, according to local traders on Wednesday.
The jewellers revealed that the woman deceived several gold and copper merchants, stealing valuable items worth lakhs of rupees using fake cheques.
During a press briefing, the dealers mentioned that at least three jewellers -- Shah-e-Hamdan Ornaments located at Lal Bazar, Maqdoomi Zevraat near Nawa Kadal, and Zarger Jewellers at Soura -- have been victims of this same fraudster in recent months.
The goldsmiths reported that these incidents occurred between late July and late August this year, totaling losses exceeding Rs 17 lakh.
Documents shared at the press conference showed that the suspect, posing as a shopper, would visit jewellery stores stating she wanted to show items to her family before making a purchase.
Once she gained the jewellers' trust, she would take the items, promise to return shortly, and then would turn off her phone and vanish. In one situation, Shah-e-Hamdan Ornaments at Lal Bazar reported a loss of jewellery valued at around Rs 5 lakh on August 21.
The owner promptly filed a First Information Report (FIR) the following day at Lal Bazar Police Station.
Maqdoomi Zevraat near Kani Mazar, Nawa Kadal, experienced a similar incident on August 8, resulting in losses of about Rs 5 lakh.
The complainant reported the case to Police Post Bagiyas, Srinagar.
Zarger Jewellers at Soura claimed to have lost jewellery worth Rs 7 lakh on July 29. The owner, after approaching Soura Police Station, stated that the police had assured them of action and were in the process of verifying details.
All three victims provided evidence such as photographs, video footage, and counterfeit bank cheques allegedly linked to an individual named Ajaz Ahmad Khan, identified in documents as a history-sheeter and gang member.
The cheques were reportedly used by the accused woman to establish her credibility with the jewellers before fleeing with the merchandise. The police have commenced an investigation into the incidents.
During the press conference, the victims urged local authorities to take action to recover the funds fraudulently obtained by the imposter.