Crime Branch Kashmir books man for swindling crores from farmers through fake apple plants deal

STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, JULY 25 (STC): In a unique modus operandi of fraud, an agri service company in South Kashmir has swindled crores of rupees from gullible farmers on the pretext of supplying high density apple plants. The plants were never supplied by the company despite collecting money in advance from the farmers.
Taking strong note of the offences committed by the company, the Economic Offences Wing (Crime Branch Kashmir), as per the reports has registered an FIR against its proprietor Shahid Rehman Bhat, a resident of Tulbagh Shangus in Anantnag. It is alleged that he has cheated several people by promising to supply High-Density Apple Plants.
According to officials, Bhat, the proprietor of M/s AR Trading Agri Services Pvt. Ltd., collected crores of rupees from farmers and other individuals, assuring them delivery of the plants. However, he neither supplied the plants nor returned the money and has been absconding since.
The report further states that the Bank statements provided by the complainants reveal that Bhat siphoned off a huge sum, running into crores. The Crime Branch stated that his actions amount to offences punishable under Section 318(4) of the BNS 2023.

(STC)