EOW files chargesheet against absconding duo in export fraud case

The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Crime Branch Kashmir has filed a chargesheet against two absconding accused — including a habitual offender — in connection with an alleged export fraud case, an official statement said on Saturday.

According to the department, the chargesheet was filed before the Court of the City Judge, Srinagar, against the two accused, including habitual offender Zahid Bashir Shagoo, a resident of Andrabi Colony, Narbal.

“As both accused persons continue to remain absconding, the chargesheet has been presented in absentia under Section 512 CrPC,” the statement said.

It added that Shagoo and his wife, Shugufta, had previously been found involved in multiple fraud cases “pertaining to alleged fraudulent extraction of money on the pretext of providing gas agencies.” Chargesheets in those cases were also filed in absentia under Section 512 CrPC after the couple evaded arrest.

The EOW noted that Shagoo’s repeated involvement in high-value fraud cases reflects “a persistent pattern of alleged criminal conduct resulting in substantial financial losses to victims.” His continued evasion of law enforcement remains a serious concern, it said.

In the present case (FIR No. 31 of 2023), the matter arose from a written complaint alleging that Zahid Bashir deceitfully induced the complainant to invest in a purported export business involving mutton, rice, and other goods destined for Dubai.

Shagoo, in alleged collusion with co-accused Javeed Ahmad Shah, is reported to have executed a meticulously planned scheme that included taking the complainant to Punjab to sign a forged agreement with Mahabir Rice Mill, Mahabir Solvent, Rice Market, GT Road, Karnal, and later escorting him to Dubai to create false credibility around the venture.

“Based on these misrepresentations, the complainant invested ₹34,74,600, which, as per the investigation, was misappropriated. The probe established the use of forged documents, fabricated agreements, and deliberate inducement, leading to offences punishable under Sections 420 and 120-B RPC. Accordingly, the chargesheet has been submitted before the court for judicial determination,” the statement added.