Theft of Rs 400 crore in demonetised currency turns out to be fake

BELAGAVI: A sensational robbery claim in Maharashtra has turned out to be a hoax, with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) concluding that the alleged theft of Rs 400 crore in demonetised currency was a fabricated story.

The incident began when businessman Sandeep Patil, a resident of Nashik, filed a complaint with the police, claiming that two containers carrying Rs 400 crore in demonetised currency were stolen along the Chorla Ghat near Khanapur in Karnataka.

The complaint sparked a major investigation, with the Maharashtra government forming an SIT to probe the case. After months-long investigation, the SIT submitted its report to the court, stating that the entire incident was a fabrication. The report highlighted inconsistencies in Patil’s statement and lack of concrete evidence.

The court has accepted the SIT’s report and discharged the accused, citing lack of evidence. The police are now considering action against Patil for filing a false complaint.

The case had created a stir in Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Goa, with police forces in all three states working together to crack the case. The SIT’s conclusion has brought relief to the authorities, who can now focus on other cases.