Builder arrested for duping over 450 people

A builder has been arrested for allegedly cheating over 450 people through fake companies by selling plots in Neb Sarai area of south Delhi, police said today.
Manoj Bhardwaj (43) was arrested on the complaints of the victims on a tip off from Sainik Farm, Neb Sarai area, said Ishwar Singh, DCP(south).
Police has also identified 10 victims who paid Bhardwaj's fake companies to the tune of several lakhs. The victims were sold plots in Faridabad, on paper, he said.
The aggrieved persons were lured by the advertisement of group of companies floated by the accused.
"The builder had taken huge amounts from them and had given 'Ikrarnama Note' (agreement to sell) to all of them, showing images of the plots to be given to them. They had invested the money many years ago but till date no plot was given to them," the officer said.

During interrogation, Bhardwaj told police that he wanted to follow in the footsteps of a famous builder and his companies that now delves into various sectors, he said.
Investigators also found out that around 350 people have filed complaints with Economic Offences Wing of Delhi Police and eight cases of cheating have so far been registered against the companies of the accused.
The accused claimed a turn over of hundreds of crores of rupees by the companies some of which had been registered in the name of his family members and relatives, he added.