Mumbai: A woman has been arrested in Mumbai for allegedly selling an estranged husband’s ₹1.1-crore flat after using a forged death certificate to falsely establish that he had died, according to a report by Hindustan Times.
Husband approached police after discovering the sale
The accused, identified as Shalini Crasta, allegedly sold the property without her estranged husband Ryan Crasta’s knowledge. Ryan reportedly approached the police in July after learning that documents had been forged to facilitate the sale of the flat.
According to the report, investigators are examining how the alleged fake death certificate was prepared and used in the property transaction. The case has raised questions about the misuse of official documents and the safeguards surrounding property ownership records.
Police investigate alleged document fraud
The police investigation is focused on establishing how the property was transferred and whether other people assisted in preparing or using the allegedly forged documents.
The case also highlights the serious consequences that can arise when fraudulent records are used in property transactions. A death certificate is an important legal document, and allegedly presenting a living person as deceased can have significant implications for ownership, inheritance and other legal rights.
Ryan’s complaint reportedly led to the investigation after he discovered that the property had been sold for around ₹1.1 crore despite him being alive.
Authorities are now expected to examine the property documents, the alleged death certificate and other records connected with the transaction. The investigation will also seek to determine the extent of the accused’s alleged role and whether others were involved.
The allegations against Shalini remain subject to investigation and due legal process. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of verifying property and identity documents, particularly in transactions involving significant assets.