Mumbai Crime Branch’s Property Cell has arrested businessman Nishit Patel in an alleged fraud of Rs 16.24 crore involving Bollywood actor Javed Jaffrey’s wife Habiba Jaffrey. The case, considered a high-profile case, has been registered at Khar police station against six accused, including BMC assistant commissioner Mahesh Patil. The FIR names Nishit Patel, Mahesh Patil, Rupesh, Sagar Mehta, Devendra Padwal and several others under sections 318(4), 319(2), 336(2), 336(3), 338, 340(2), 341(1), 61(2), and 3(5) of the Indian Code of Justice (BNS).
Javed Jaffrey’s wife Habiba allegedly cheated of Rs 16.24 crore, businessman arrested
Police officials said the accused duped the Jafri family by allegedly claiming to have close links with influential builders and senior government officials. He allegedly convinced the family to invest crores of rupees in the “New Kamalkunj” redevelopment project located in Bandra West, promising high financial returns and early possession of the property. Investigators allege that forged paperwork, fake expressions of interest and fabricated registration-related formalities were used to make the deal appear genuine and win the trust of the family.
The investigation also revealed that the invested funds were routed through multiple company accounts. It is said that during interrogation, primary accused Nishit Patel has admitted his involvement in making fake documents. Authorities are now investigating whether similar tactics were used to target other actors and prominent personalities as well.
As per available information, Habiba Jafri had received a BMC notice in April 2024 regarding property tax dues related to her bungalow in Andheri. During that period, an acquaintance named Ali Raza reportedly introduced her to Mahesh Patil, who served as the assistant commissioner of BMC’s G-South ward. Investigators allege that Patil initially offered assistance in resolving a tax-related issue and later advised the family on investments, which ultimately became part of the alleged fraud scheme.
