Chennai: Two more arrested in Rs 11.63 lakh scam involving deceased aid funds
So far, five individuals, including two government employees, have been arrested for allegedly forging documents, stealing checks, and siphoning funds intended for beneficiaries;
Representative Image (File)
CHENNAI: As part of the ongoing investigation into embezzlement involving Rs 11.63 lakh meant for families of deceased Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) under a state welfare scheme, the North Beach Police have arrested two more persons.
So far, five individuals, including two government employees, have been arrested for allegedly forging documents, stealing checks, and siphoning funds intended for beneficiaries.
The fraud came to light after an officer from the Chennai District Collector's Office filed a complaint. The scheme, designed to provide financial aid to families of Tamil natives who died abroad, was exploited by accused staffers who forged the District Collector's signatures, used counterfeit government seals, and stole four checks. Investigations revealed they fraudulently withdrew approximately Rs 11.53 lakh from banks.
Following a probe led by the North Beach Police Inspector, three individuals were arrested on April 4. The arrested are identified as Dinesh (30), a resident of Bajanai Koil Street, Park town, and Bheemod (30), an employee at the Collector Office, from Park New Colony, Tiruvallur District and Subramani (31), another staff member at the Collector Office from Dharapuram Taluk, Tiruppur District.
Authorities seized Rs 1.15 lakh in cash, a gold ring, a two-wheeler worth Rs 3 lakh, fake government seals, and forged documents.
On April 5, two more suspects were detained – Ragupathi (30), of Ramapuram, Chennai, and Karthik Kumar (31), of Ambai Nagar, Ramapuram. Bank account books and check books were confiscated from their possession.
All five accused were produced before a magistrate court on April 5 and remanded in judicial custody. Police confirmed the scam targeted vulnerable families and emphasised strict supervision of welfare disbursements.
Authorities are further examining the depth of the fraud and whether more personnel are involved. The Chennai District Collector's Office has pledged full cooperation to prevent future misuse of public funds.