PANAJI
The Crime Branch (CB) has taken over the investigation into a multi-crore investment fraud involving prime accused Myron Rodrigues, his wife Deepali Parab and other accomplices all of whom have been evading arrest for over a year.
The Economic Offences Cell (EOC) investigated the scam valued at over Rs 100 crore. Myron and Deepali are believed to have masterminded the fraud as they allegedly lured investors with promises of high returns from the stock market. Instead, they misappropriated the money for personal expenses.
Despite an FIR registered in October 2023, the accused allegedly refused to cooperate with the probe while Myron is believed to be hiding in London.
An order issued by Deputy Inspector General of Police Varsha Sharma called for a ‘professional probe’ while handing over the case to the CB from EOC.
“…To ensure a thorough and more professional investigation, the case stands transferred to Crime Branch PS Ribandar with immediate effect for further investigation. PI EOC PS should at once hand over the case papers and up to date case diaries along with attached Muddemal property if any to the CB,” it stated.
Superintendent of Police (CB) Rahul Gupta has been directed to assign the case to a competent officer and personally monitor the progress of the investigation.
So far, 38 complaints have been filed against the couple, with the total losses standing at about Rs 23.21 crore. However, the EOC “ in the latest release “ suspected that many more victims may exist and the amount defrauded by the accused could exceed Rs 100 crore.
A Look Out Circular (LOC) has been issued against the seven accused whereas Deepali was recently issued a notice under Section 41A of the Criminal Procedure Code and has been summoned multiple times for questioning.
