In Assam, investment scams are creating significant turmoil, particularly with the recent arrest of three individuals involved in a fraud tied to the Grihalakshmi Cooperative Society. This scandal has caused considerable alarm within financial communities, especially in Azara, near Guwahati.
On Thursday, police apprehended Jiten Deka, the founder of the Grihalakshmi Cooperative Society, along with director Indrani Das and secretary Sanjeev Deka.
The society is accused of defrauding the public of crores through misleading financial schemes. Operating in regions such as Azara, Dharapur, Garal, Bhattapara, and Mirza, the society gathered substantial amounts from thousands of individuals via home visit agents.
Promising attractive returns on low-interest loans through various installment plans, the society ultimately left customers without their matured deposits, ignoring their requests for payment.
Numerous complaints have been filed, with allegations stating that Indrani Das embezzled vast sums from victims. Following the complaints, the Azara Police and West Guwahati Police District initiated an investigation, leading to Indrani’s detention.
Victims reported feeling betrayed after the society refused to honor their matured investments. One affected individual noted, “My policy matured on December 12, 2023, but after numerous inquiries, I got no response. Indrani assured me my money was secure but now denies payment.”
Another victim, whose policy matured in October 2022, pleaded for the return of their principal amount, stating, “I just want my money back; I don’t care about the interest.”
The three accused have been presented in court and are currently under four days of police custody as investigations continue.