In Jotana village of Mehsana district, three individuals posing as GST officers were caught by local traders. They demanded ₹5 lakh from a cloth merchant, claiming he had not paid GST for the last five years. The incident unfolded at the New Best Price shop, owned by Malik Ilyasbhai. Two women and one man arrived at his store, asking for GST numbers and documents. They told the merchant he owed ₹5 lakh and threatened him with a ₹10 lakh fine if he did not pay immediately.
The merchant became suspicious and asked for their ID cards. The accused claimed their IDs were in their car and attempted to flee. However, other traders managed to catch them. The detained individuals later claimed to be journalists, introducing themselves as Riddhi Dave, Patel Sharmila, and driver Patel Kiran Vinodbhai. Investigations revealed they had come from Ahmedabad to conduct a fake raid.
Following the merchant’s complaint, the local police arrested the three suspects and have launched further investigations. This incident raises concerns about fraudulent activities in the region, especially in business dealings. Local authorities encourage traders to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour immediately.
Mehsana district, where Jotana is located, has a rich history and is known for its agricultural activities. The district was established in the Vikram Samvat 1414 by Chavda Rajvansh and later became an administrative center under the Gaikwad rule in 1902. With its strategic location, Mehsana plays a significant role in the economy of Gujarat, especially in agriculture and trade.
In recent years, there have been various incidents related to fake officials targeting businesses. These fraudsters often exploit the lack of awareness among small traders. The government has taken steps to educate business owners about their rights and the legal processes involved in tax payments. Workshops and seminars are being conducted to help traders identify genuine officials and understand the GST system better.
Local police advise traders to verify the credentials of anyone claiming to be a government official. They should ask for identification and contact the relevant authorities if they feel threatened or pressured to pay money. This will help in curbing such fraudulent activities and protecting the interests of honest business owners.
The community in Jotana has come together to support each other in these trying times. Local leaders and traders are working to create awareness about such scams and how to handle them effectively. They are also discussing the possibility of forming a trader’s association that can provide support and guidance to its members.
As incidents like these are on the rise, the message is clear: vigilance is key. Traders must be aware of their rights and stand against fraud. The collaboration between local authorities and the business community is essential to prevent such fraudulent activities in the future. Together, they can ensure a safe and prosperous environment for all.
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