Woman who cheated gold merchant using Vartur Prakash’s name had saved his number as ‘Gulab Jamun’

BENGALURU:  The accused woman, who was involved in cheating a gold merchant by taking former minister Vartur Prakash’s name, had saved his number as ‘Gulab Jamun’, according to sources.

Shwetha Gowda a.k.a Aishwarya Gowda, who cheated a gold merchant on Commercial Street by dropping the name of former minister Varthur Prakash, has revealed some interesting matters about their relationship and has made explosive statements during the investigation.

Varthur Prakash and Shwetha Gowda reportedly became friends on Facebook six months ago. They exchanged mobile numbers and chatted on WhatsApp. She saved his name as ‘Gulab jamun’ on her phone and both went to Chamundi Hill several times, sources said.

The police have gathered evidence of Prakash and Shwetha’s friendship, including photos and a ticket booking to Tirupati. Shwetha admitted to sharing the stolen gold with Varthur Prakash. She also claimed that Prakash borrowed Rs 10 lakh from her.

Evidence has been found that Varthur Prakash went to the three jewellery shops with Shwetha. Despite being given notices twice, a third notice has been issued to him as he did not appear for the questioning. If he fails to appear, he may be arrested.

The police have found evidence of Prakash and Shwetha’s involvement in the gold scam, including photos and witness statements, the sources said.