Mumbai, May 14: In a shocking turn of events, Habiba Jaffrey, wife of actor Javed Jaffrey, has been defrauded of over ₹16.24 crore. The Mumbai Crime Branch’s Property Cell has arrested businessman Nishit Patel in connection with this high-profile fraud case. A total of six individuals, including BMC Assistant Commissioner Mahesh Patil, are facing charges.
According to police reports, the accused deceived Habiba Jaffrey and her family by posing as associates of major builders and government officials. Not only the Jaffrey family but also several other artists, relatives, and influential figures were reportedly swindled out of millions under the guise of investment opportunities.
In April 2024, Habiba Jaffrey received a property tax notice from the BMC regarding her bungalow in Andheri. Through an acquaintance named Ali Raza, she was introduced to Mahesh Patil, the BMC Assistant Commissioner of the G-South Ward. Patil initially assured her of a tax settlement and later recommended investment in the ‘New Kamalkunj’ commercial project in Bandra West. Nishit Patel claimed to be connected with major builders and asserted that ₹150 crore had already been invested in the project. He promised that possession of the commercial space would be granted by December 2025, along with a pre-lease agreement with a foreign bank.
The accused visited the Jaffrey residence multiple times, presenting blueprints, letterheads, fake letters of interest, and project images and videos to gain their trust. Believing in their assurances, the Jaffrey family sold their flat and bungalow to invest the money. Police investigations revealed that the funds were transferred to various companies, including Poojan Technologies, Udit Traders, Asian Foods, and RPPPL Multi Trade.
One of the most alarming aspects of the scam was the fraudulent registration process. The accused, including Rupesh and Devendra Padwal, arrived at the Jaffrey home with devices resembling government machinery. They collected photographs, fingerprints, and signatures, claiming to complete the registration process. Later, they provided copies of fake documents. When original documents were requested, they claimed they were with the builder. During interrogation, Nishit Patel admitted to creating the counterfeit documents.
A complaint has been lodged at the Khar police station against Nishit Patel, Mahesh Patil, Rupesh, Sagar Mehta, Devendra Padwal, and others under several serious charges. Javed Jaffrey, Habiba Jaffrey, and Naweed Jaffrey, among others, invested money in this scam, which involved cash, foreign currency, and luxury watches, totaling ₹16.24 crore. The Mumbai Crime Branch is now investigating the entire network.
Authorities are also looking into whether other artists and individuals have been defrauded in a similar manner. More arrests may follow. Nishit Patel has been presented in court, where he has been remanded to police custody until May 19.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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