Mahesh Patil, who serves as the Assistant Municipal Commissioner in the K North Ward of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), has faced suspension amid a significant cheating case amounting to Rs 16.24 crore. The suspension was formally enacted on June 5 and officially communicated to him on June 7. The case stems from a complaint filed by Habiba Jaffrey, the spouse of actor Jaaved Jaaferi, concerning a redevelopment initiative in Bandra.

An FIR has been registered at the Khar Police Station, alleging that Patil, alongside five other individuals, defrauded Habiba Jaffrey in connection with the aforementioned project. In a related development, businessman Nishit Patel has been apprehended and subsequently brought before a court, which ordered his custody with the police until May 19.

Past Controversies Surrounding the Accused

In November of the previous year, Patil had already been placed on mandatory leave for one month due to accusations of “improper investment” related to the same Bandra redevelopment project. At that time, he had refuted the claims made against him.

Habiba Jaffrey’s complaint details her first encounter with Patil at the BMC office, where he presented an investment opportunity that he claimed was highly profitable and tied to the Bandra redevelopment project. According to her allegations, Patil advised her to channel the investment through businessman Nishit Patel.

Details of the Alleged Fraud

The complainant asserts that forged government documents were fabricated and falsely presented as legitimate to coax Habiba Jaffrey, Jaaved Jaaferi, their family members including Naved Jaffrey, and others into investing in the project. The total sum misappropriated allegedly reached around Rs 16.24 crore, received from investors through various means, including cheques, cash, foreign currency, and even luxury watches.

Following her realization of the fraudulent activities, Habiba Jaffrey approached the Khar Police earlier this month, leading to the filing of the FIR. The authorities are currently investigating the case, with Mahesh Patil under suspension and Nishit Patel in custody as part of the proceedings.

Investigation Continues

The investigation into the matter is ongoing, with police authorities actively pursuing leads and gathering evidence related to the alleged financial misconduct. The involvement of BMC personnel in such a significant fraud raises concerns about oversight and accountability within municipal departments. As the case unfolds, further details may emerge that could shed light on the broader implications of the allegations.

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