Srinagar Police have successfully arrested a goldsmith accused of selling counterfeit gold ornaments, exposing a major fraud scheme.
On January 9, 2025, Nisar Ahmad Bhat, a resident of Bindoo Kokernag who currently works as a storekeeper in Lalmandi, lodged a complaint at Police Station Nowhatta. He reported purchasing gold ornaments from Mehraj Din Qazi, the proprietor of M/S Soliya Ornaments in Bijbehara. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the items were counterfeit.
Following the complaint, an FIR (No. 02/2025) was filed at Police Station Nowhatta, and an investigation was launched. The accused, identified as Mehraj Din Qazi, son of Gh Mohammad Qazi, was promptly arrested. The police seized the fake jewellery from his possession.
During interrogation, Qazi admitted to selling counterfeit ornaments, which were stamped with fake hallmarks. He revealed that the fake jewellery was distributed across various locations in Srinagar, including Nowhatta.
Laboratory tests confirmed that the seized ornaments were indeed counterfeit. Investigations are ongoing to uncover additional links in the fraudulent network.
The police have advised the public to be cautious when purchasing gold ornaments, especially those being offered at unusually low prices, to avoid falling victim to such scams.
