Police in Chhattisgarh have launched an investigation after a Raipur-based businessman alleged that he was cheated of ₹1.13 crore by a group that promised to supply ₹45 crore worth of counterfeit currency. Investigators are examining not only the alleged financial fraud but also claims of a suspected fake currency network operating across state lines.

The case has been registered at Telibandha Police Station, where officials described the matter as sensitive and said multiple aspects of the alleged conspiracy are under scrutiny.

Social Media Contact Led to Deal

According to the complaint, the businessman, identified as Umesh Gupta, first came in contact with the accused after watching videos on social media.

The complainant alleged that the accused claimed to have access to a large quantity of counterfeit currency and proposed supplying ₹45 crore in fake notes in exchange for an advance payment of ₹1.13 crore.

Believing the claims, the businessman reportedly initiated discussions with the group, leading to several rounds of negotiations.

Meetings Held in Raipur and Maharashtra

Police said the alleged deal was discussed during multiple meetings held at hotels in Raipur's Telibandha area. The complainant also travelled to different locations in Maharashtra, where further meetings were reportedly organised to finalise the transaction.

Investigators are verifying the details of these meetings through hotel records, CCTV footage and travel documents.

Accused Allegedly Took Advance, Never Delivered

According to the FIR, the accused repeatedly assured the complainant that the counterfeit currency consignment would be delivered soon. However, after receiving the advance amount, they allegedly continued delaying the delivery by citing logistical and security-related reasons.

Despite repeated assurances, neither the promised counterfeit currency was supplied nor was the advance amount returned, prompting the businessman to approach the police.

Police Examining Two Separate Offences

Investigators said the case involves two important aspects.

The first concerns the alleged cheating of ₹1.13 crore. The second relates to claims made in the complaint regarding the proposed supply and circulation of counterfeit currency, which could attract additional legal provisions if substantiated during the investigation.

Police are analysing financial transactions, mobile phone records, communication between the parties and other documentary evidence to determine whether a larger organised network may have been involved.

Evidence Collection Underway

Officials said investigators are collecting CCTV footage from locations where meetings reportedly took place and are verifying cash transactions linked to the alleged deal.

Police are also coordinating with authorities in Maharashtra to trace the movement of the accused and identify other individuals who may have participated in the meetings or the alleged conspiracy.

Authorities are examining whether similar complaints have been reported elsewhere involving the same suspects.

Police Call Case Sensitive

Senior police officials have termed the matter highly sensitive due to the allegations involving counterfeit currency.

They have refrained from sharing further details while the investigation remains in progress, stating that additional information will be disclosed after verification of evidence and identification of all persons involved.