Crime Branch Kashmir Files Chargesheet in Alleged Dubai Export Scam as Two Accused Remain Absconding

Overview

• The Economic Offences Wing filed the FIR No. 31/2023 chargesheet under Sections 420 and 120-B RPC before the Court of the City Judge, Srinagar.
• The chargesheet was submitted in absentia under Section 512 CrPC because Zahid Bashir Sofi alias Shagoo and co-accused Javeed Ahmad Shah remain at large.
• Investigators allege the pair arranged a forged 'Mahabir Rice Mill' agreement in Karnal and a Dubai visit that led the complainant to invest ₹34,74,600, which the probe says was misappropriated.
• Police note Sofi’s prior naming in FIRs 13/2018 and 21/2022 tied to alleged gas-agency frauds, with earlier chargesheets also filed under Section 512 CrPC.
• The Crime Branch appealed for public information on the absconding accused, presenting financial-crime crackdowns as part of efforts to choke funds believed to sustain terrorism.