Budgam, October 9, 2026:In a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into an alleged white-collar criminal syndicate involved in fraudulent job offers, educational admissions and fictitious business deals, Budgam Police have arrested three more accused persons, taking the total number of arrests in the case to five.
The newly arrested accused have been identified as Zahoor Ahmad Bhat, son of Habib Ullah Bhat, resident of Watpora, Bandipora; Imtiyaz Ahmad Bhat, son of Mohd. Yousuf Bhat, resident of Kaloosa, Bandipora; and Saleem Ali Bhat, son of Mohd. Shafi Bhat, resident of Plan, Bandipora.
During the course of the investigation, Zahoor Ahmad Bhat has emerged as a key alleged conspirator in the syndicate. The questioning of the newly arrested accused is underway to ascertain their individual roles, establish the modus operandi of the alleged criminal network and identify other persons who may be linked to the case.
Earlier, Budgam Police had arrested two accused persons, namely Jehangir Ahmad Dar and Firdous Ahmad Bhat, in connection with the same case.
The investigation pertains to allegations that the syndicate defrauded members of the public by promising government jobs, admissions to educational institutions outside Jammu and Kashmir, and lucrative business opportunities through fictitious business entities. The accused allegedly exploited the trust of unsuspecting individuals by projecting influence and claiming connections with senior government officials and political figures, thereby inducing victims to part with substantial amounts of money.
Budgam Police are continuing efforts to trace the financial transactions involved, identify additional victims and associates, and establish the full extent of the alleged criminal activities. The investigation is also focused on identifying any further links in the network and ascertaining the role of other persons, if any. Further arrests and recoveries are likely as the investigation progresses.
Budgam Police reiterate their commitment to safeguarding the public against financial fraud and other forms of organised criminal activity. The general public is advised to exercise caution and verify all claims relating to government employment, educational admissions and business opportunities through authorised channels. Anyone who has been victimised by similar fraudulent activities is urged to approach the nearest police station and report the matter to the police.
Budgam Police remain committed to ensuring accountability, protecting public trust and taking strict legal action against those found involved in fraudulent activities.
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