Thane Police's Crime Branch Unit-5 has apprehended a developer accused of defrauding two flat buyers of nearly Rs 2 crore. The buyers had been assured possession of their flats but were left waiting for over eight years due to alleged legal complications. In 2016, the complainants entered into agreements with the developer to purchase flats of approximately 650 square feet each in the Mogharpada area of Ghodbunder Road.

Trusting the developer, they secured bank loans and began monthly EMI payments. However, despite fulfilling their financial obligations, the buyers never received possession of the flats. Whenever they inquired, they were met with excuses regarding legal issues, according to Senior Inspector Vikas Ghodke of the Thane Crime Branch. Ghodke explained that a legal dispute arose when the landowner, on whose land the building was constructed, filed a case against the developer. The court subsequently barred the developer from selling the flats to third parties. Despite these court orders, the developer proceeded with registration and accepted payments from the buyers, promising them possession but failing to deliver.

The developer continuously postponed handing over the flats, citing the civil court's order preventing him from obtaining the necessary occupational certificate (OC). The complainant initially sought a refund, which the developer declined, offering the option to stay in the flat purchased. However, due to the incomplete building and lack of elevator facilities, the complainant refused. Subsequently, when the complainant again requested a refund and handed over a cheque, it was dishonored by the bank.

Consequently, the complainant lodged a case at the Kasarwadavali police station under sections related to cheating in the Indian Penal Code. The accused was presented in court and remanded to police custody for two days for further investigation. Police disclosed that the developer faces three similar cases.