Fake SBI branch dupes villagers in elaborate scam

A fraudulent scheme involving a fake branch of the State Bank of India (SBI) has emerged in Chhattisgarh, leaving many villagers and unemployed individuals reeling from financial losses. Set in Chhapora, a village about 250 kilometers from Raipur, the scam saw criminals create a convincing facade of a legitimate bank, complete with trained staff, professional documents, and operational counters. This elaborate setup fooled the local community into believing they were visiting a genuine SBI branch, where they could open accounts and apply for loans.

The fake branch, which opened just 10 days before its closure on September 27, became a hub for local villagers seeking employment. Six individuals were recruited for roles such as managers, cashiers, and marketing officers, all lured by attractive job offers and promises of lucrative salaries. However, these positions came with a hefty price tag, with potential employees paying between ₹2 lakh and ₹6 lakh to secure their jobs.

The deception unraveled when the manager of the legitimate Dabra SBI branch raised concerns over the suspicious activities at the new branch. Investigations revealed that the so-called employees had been appointed with counterfeit documents, and the entire operation was nothing more than a sham. Police have identified several suspects in the case, including Rekha Sahu, Mandir Das, and Pankaj, who allegedly acted as the manager of the fake branch.

The fraudulent bank operated from a rented property, adorned with new furniture and signage to create an illusion of authenticity. The mastermind behind the scam had promised the victims lucrative government job opportunities, capitalizing on their desperation for employment. Local villagers like Ajay Kumar Agarwal played a pivotal role in exposing the scam when they noticed irregularities and reported them to the authorities, leading to the bank's investigation.

As a result of this elaborate fraud, many of the victims are now not only facing financial hardships but also potential legal repercussions. Numerous individuals had mortgaged their valuables or taken loans to pay for the fake job appointments, leaving them in a precarious situation.