Pune: A fraud case involving ₹26.98 lakh worth of diesel has come to light, where a businessman was deceived through fake signatures and a fraudulent affidavit. The accused initially gained trust by borrowing and repaying small amounts before obtaining 28,000 liters of diesel on credit and failing to make the payment.

The case was registered at Chandan Nagar Police Station following a complaint by Anand Madanlal Lahoti (41), a resident of Shriram Chowk, Wanawadi. Based on his complaint, the police have booked Arun Srinivasa Baireddy (resident of Nanai Baug, Wanawadi) and his associates. The incident occurred between July 1 and July 31, 2024, at Hotel Grandon in Chandan Nagar.

According to the police, the complainant owns Magar Fuel Station in Sayyed Nagar and also provides door-to-door diesel delivery services. Arun Baireddy introduced himself as an event manager and hotel business owner.

Initially, he borrowed ₹4 lakh from the complainant for an event during Holi and repaid it. Later, he took another ₹4 lakh for his hotel business and returned it in small amounts. In May 2024, he invited the complainant and Sarabjit Singh Bagga for dinner at Hotel Grand Navami and offered an investment opportunity in his newly started construction business. When the complainant declined the investment offer, Baireddy requested diesel on a one-month credit basis.

28,000 Liters of Diesel Supplied, But No Payment Made

Baireddy stated that his construction business required 25,000–30,000 liters of diesel per month and requested a one-month credit supply. An affidavit was signed, and starting July 1, 2024, the complainant supplied 28,000 liters of diesel worth ₹26.98 lakh.

By the end of the month, the bill was sent, but Baireddy failed to make the payment. When the complainant stopped supplying diesel and demanded payment in August, Baireddy kept making excuses and delaying the payment.

Forgery and Bounced Cheques Uncovered

• A security cheque given by Baireddy was deposited, but it bounced.

• When the complainant checked two other cheques, he found signature mismatches.

• There were also discrepancies in the signatures on the affidavit.

• It became clear that Baireddy had forged signatures and created fake documents to commit financial fraud.

The case is currently under investigation by Police Sub-Inspector Ashwini Patil.