Mangaluru: In a significant breakthrough, police have arrested a woman named Farida in connection with a jewellery fraud case in Shirva. As investigations progressed, it was revealed that this was not an isolated incident — Farida is allegedly the mastermind behind a series of scams across Bajpe, Moodbidri, Kavoor, and other parts of Mangaluru.
Using aliases and fake identities, Farida reportedly duped several jewellery stores by presenting forged documents and bogus cheques. Cases against her had already been registered under various police stations within Mangaluru city limits. Despite being granted bail earlier, she continued operating her schemes, the latest being the Shirva case.
A Family Affair
Farida, a resident of Kuppepadavu near Edapadavu, is suspected of conducting these scams with help from her husband, father, brother, and aunt. She’s also said to have used rented luxury cars to appear affluent and credible. Beyond jewellery shops, she targeted vegetable vendors and fish sellers, exploiting trust for profit.
Rs 7.3 Lakh Scam in Bajpe
One of her earliest known cases involves a jeweller from Kaikamba, whom she cheated in 2020 by presenting a fake cheque for Rs 7.3 lakh worth of gold. The victim, S Anand Achari, eventually recovered part of the amount with police assistance.
Fake WhatsApp Order in Kavoor
In March 2024, Farida contacted a jewellery store via WhatsApp, posing as a buyer for a baby ceremony. After selecting jewellery worth Rs 1.36 lakh, she sent a forged bank transfer slip and dispatched a boy to collect the items. The fraud was discovered when the payment didn’t reflect after two days.
Legal Action Underway
According to DCP K Ravishankar, all financial fraud cases tied to Farida have been consolidated and moved to the CEN station. Investigations are complete, and charge sheets have been filed. The court proceedings are currently in progress.
Farida’s arrest shines a light on an elaborate web of deception — a reminder for businesses to verify transactions thoroughly before handing over valuables.